06/09/2025
๐ง๐ข๐ช๐ก ๐ ๐๐๐ง ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฑ | Lucban Academy Boys Edge PSLIS in Thrilling Finish: 73โ71
The Lucban Academy (LA) Boysโ Basketball Team delivered a heart-stopping performance as they edged PSLIS with a narrow 73โ71 victory, sending the home crowd into celebration. From start to finish, the game was tight, with both teams battling for every point in front of a loud and energized audience.
The opening quarter set the tone as Faller drove the ball for the gameโs first two points before Narinay sank LAโs first three-pointer. Obmerga followed up with another triple, while Bueza dominated inside the paint as the teamโs center. By the end of the first quarter, Narinay hit a last-second three at the buzzer to give LA a slim 17โ15 lead.
Throughout the game, Oblea stood tall as LAโs big man, making it nearly impossible for PSLIS to challenge him under the basket, though referees frequently called fouls against him simply due to his size. Faller and Bueza worked as a duo, powering the offense and controlling rebounds, while Orajay anchored the defense, blocking plays with his high jumps and steady composure. Obmerga added flair with his spins and drives, securing points when the team needed them most.
The second half was a battle of nerves, with sweat dripping and both teams exchanging baskets. Once again, Narinay showed his clutch shooting, hitting a deep three with just three seconds left on the shot clock in the second quarter. With 2:32 remaining in the fourth, the score stood at 67โ62 in favor of LA, but PSLIS refused to back down.
In the final minute, tempers flared as players from both teams collided on the court, intensifying the atmosphere. The Lucban crowd erupted, chanting โLumiliyab, umaapoy LA!โ on repeat, dancing and cheering their boys on. Bueza, showing his leadership, tapped Roem on the shoulder to calm him down and keep focus on the gameโs closing seconds.
When the buzzer sounded, Lucban Academy sealed the win at 73โ71, and the crowd erupted into pure celebration. The gym thundered with chants of โLumiliyab, umaapoy LA!โ as students and players sang the Lucban Academy hymn in unison. It wasnโt just a victory on the court it was a triumph of hard work, unity, and resilience.
Reflecting on the game, team captain Roem Orajay shared, โPinaghandaan namin ito sa paraan ng pagtama ng mga nagawa naming mali noong first game sapagkat wala kaming kompynasa sa isaโt isa at wala kaming depensa. Kaya nagsimula ulit kami sa baba hanggang makaabot sa finals, ngayon uhaw na uhaw kami manalo sapagkat ito ang pinakakinakamit namin at maibawi ang mga pagkatalo namin last year. Ayaw na namin maging isang placer kundi maibalik namin ang champion sa ating school.โ
This victory was more than just a close win it was a reminder of LAโs determination, teamwork, and heart. With the momentum from this thrilling match, the boys proved that they are ready to take on bigger challenges, carrying not only the pride of their school but also the hope of even greater triumphs ahead.
Article by Aliyah Montemayor
Photo by Nizha Enriquez
Layout by Gabriel Palillo, Chezka Maravilla, and Beatrice Bungalon
