JMC Kings overcome deficit to win the PCCL Davao crown over HCDC Crusaders

Forward Chester Catarong scored crucial points in the fourth quarter to carry his team to victory against the Crusaders, who led from the first to third quarters of the game.

Considered by many as the underdog in the finals due to their smaller and less experienced roster, the Crusaders surprised the taller and more experienced Kings as they led the first quarter battle 30-25 with their tough defense and outside sniping.

Shaquille Dimacuta, the starting center of Crusaders, surprised his taller Kings counterparts Wayne Gementiza and Catarong with his inside plays and rebounds.

Playing with great energy and passion, Dimacuta helped the Crusaders carry their lead at halftime, 47-41.

Coming into the third canto, the Crusaders continued their tough defense and steady plays and kept their lead 70-64 coming into the final canto.

Entering the final quarter, Catarong teamed up with lanky shooter David Mendiola to cut and eventually took the lead and the championship against the Crusaders.

Aside from the bragging rights as the current best college basketball team in Region 11, the Kings also got a slot to compete in the PCCL Mindanao finals at the same venue on April 26-30 alongside the Crusaders and Rizal Memorial Colleges Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs got the coveted slot to compete against the best teams in Mindanao after they tamed the University of Mindanao Wildcats in their battle for the third game, 92-91. 

The PCCL-Escandor Cup was presented by The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Genesis 88 Construction, and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas XI Davao City Referees Chapter. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)