The Blue Panthers edged out the University of St. La Salle, 83-80, in a gripping battle for third place Monday at the VMA Gym, capping a dramatic turnaround campaign in the NOPSSCEA Season 45 basketball tournament.
After a dismal 1-4 showing in the elimination round — including a loss to USLS — the Panthers regrouped and delivered when it mattered most, reclaiming pride with a hard-fought podium finish.
LCC controlled the tempo for most of the contest, dictating pace on both ends of the floor. The offense leaned heavily on Martinez, Abella, Jaype and Palaganas, who carried the scoring load throughout the game. Camento, Elbanbuena and Braganza delivered timely baskets that kept the Panthers ahead during crucial stretches.
On the defensive end, Fermiza anchored the shaded lane, disrupting drives and securing key stops, with De Los Santos and Innocencio providing strong interior support.
The decisive moment came in the final 41 seconds, when the Panthers held firm against a late USLS rally. Clutch execution and defensive discipline preserved the narrow three-point cushion until the final buzzer.
The victory completed LCC’s bounce-back run, overcoming early setbacks in the eliminations and avenging its previous defeat to USLS in the most important game of its season.
With the win, the Blue Panthers secured the second runner-up finish — a testament to resilience, composure and trust in one another when the stakes were highest.