19/04/2026
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐. The hardwood turned into a warzone as the College of Engineering(CEN) Tigers and the College of Criminal Justice Education(CCJE) Dragons collided in the most awaited championship rematch, during the University Cup 2026 Basketball Men's Category battle for crown and glory at the University Gymnasium, April 19.
A clash soaked in revenge, pride, and unfinished business. Hungry to seize the crown, the Tigers came out swinging with relentless pace, sharp ball movement, and fearless attacks to the rim. But the reigning kings from CCJE stood firm, matching every run with poise, power, and championship composure. Every possession felt like a final shot, every bucket carried the weight of legacy.
It was a fangs-to-claw game from tip-off to final buzzer. CEN roared behind their aggressive defense and fiery transition game, while CCJE answered with ice-cold ex*****ons, lockdown stops, and veteran grit. The court echoed with hustle plays, contested jumpers, bruising rebounds, and momentum-shifting fast breaks as neither side gave an inch. The Tigers bared their ferocity, but the Dragons unleashed the fire of experience, refusing to let their throne be stolen on their watch.
When the dust settled, the Dragons still ruled the kingdom. CCJE slammed the door on the comeback bid and successfully defended their territory with 67-78 final score, cementing themselves as back-to-back champions. Yet in defeat, the Tigers walked tallโproud, feisty, and battle-tested after delivering a championship performance worthy of respect.
Oliver Genobis shaed his thoughts during the game and the team's preparations, and in his words "Most of us were excited, but we canโt deny that we were also anxious because we know CCJE is a tough team to beat. We were hungry to redeem last yearโs defeat. We tried to stay composed and put our trust in the system, especially on defense, but in the end, we still fell short.
Still, weโre grateful. We managed to reach the championship level again, and more importantly, no one got hurt during such a physical game. That alone is a win for us.
Our preparation this time focused heavily on mental toughness. We knew the game would be high intensity and very physical, so we trained ourselves to stay composed, keep our emotions in check, and not let the pressure break our rhythm. Win or lose, we walked out with our heads held high because we gave everything we had and fought as one team."
Crown denied but never conquered, the Tigers left the court wounded yet unbowed, proving their claws are still sharp and their hunt for the throne is only beginning.
Caption by Angella Marie Ga
Photos by Alexandrei Josh Prietos
