The defending champion University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Green Lancers and the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Junior Wildcats faced immense challenges in their semi-final knockout games, but both teams managed to secure hard-earned victories to advance to the finals of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) 15 Under basketball event. The thrilling matches took place on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the UV Main gym located on Sanciangko Street in Cebu City.
Junior Wildcats Secure Finals Berth with Narrow Win
The CIT-U Junior Wildcats were the first team to book their spot in the best-of-three finals series after a closely contested battle against the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC) Magis Eagles. In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Junior Wildcats emerged victorious with a final score of 50-48. The match saw both teams exchanging leads throughout, but the Junior Wildcats demonstrated remarkable composure and strategic play in the crucial moments to clinch the win.
Baby Green Lancers Stage Dramatic Comeback
Following the Junior Wildcats' success, the UV Baby Green Lancers also punched their ticket to the finals with an equally tense and nail-biting victory over the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Baby Panthers, finishing with a score of 43-42. The defending champions faced significant pressure early in the game, as they trailed the Baby Panthers for the first three quarters. However, the Baby Green Lancers mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth quarter, showcasing their resilience and determination to secure the win and keep their championship hopes alive.
Intense Competition Highlights Cesafi Event
The semi-final games were a testament to the high level of competition in the Cesafi 15 Under basketball tournament. Both matches featured back-and-forth action, with teams battling fiercely for every point. The Junior Wildcats and Magis Eagles engaged in a seesaw affair, with momentum shifting multiple times before the Junior Wildcats found a way to pull ahead in the critical stages. Similarly, the Baby Green Lancers' struggle against the Baby Panthers underscored the unpredictability and excitement of youth sports, as they fought tooth and nail to defend their title.
These victories set the stage for an exciting finals series between the UV Baby Green Lancers and the CIT-U Junior Wildcats, promising more thrilling basketball action for fans in Cebu. The teams' ability to overcome adversity in the semi-finals highlights their skill and tenacity, making the upcoming championship showdown a must-watch event for local sports enthusiasts.
