The Philippine College of Criminology squad pushed themselves to the limit to defuse Electron College, 82-75, in the opening game of the National Universities and Colleges Athletic Association recently at San Juan Gymnasium in San Juan City.
The Warriors from Novaliches, Quezon City, composed of young electronic student athletes, waxed hot in the early goings using speed, sticky defense and fluid offense, ignited by team triggerman Raymond Basilio to keep the powerhouse Serpent Eagles from Sta. Cruz in Manila at bay as they trailed majority of first two quarters.
The Criminologists, who came to the NUCAA warzone fully armed, however, flexed their muscles in the final half and grabbed the momentum, 42-37, in the first minute of the third, highlighted by treys from gunners Medrilic Loresto and Paul Bradley Villareal.
PCCr’s onslaught peppered the Warriors of Engr. Dennis Solis in the payoff period as it built a commanding lead, 69-52, with 8:24 remaining in the game.
Electron College put up a last-ditch resistance, but it was not enough to pull off a surprise against the superior troop of athletic director Gene Tumapat, who dedicated the victory to the Bautista clan of the country’s pioneer Criminology institution.
“May konting jitters lang sa simula pero nu’ng makuha na ang rhythm ng laro, ‘di na pinakawalan ng mga bata ang panalo,” said Tumapat. “The young team (Electron) is really a hard nut to crack”.
The inaugural season of NUCAA opened via the traditional colorful parade of teams and festive mood, highlighted by dance numbers of the students and the inspirational speeches of league officials Ding Andres, Mon Padiz, Ato Tolentino, Atty. Joanne Fabella, Arlene Rodriguez, Red Dumuk, Jun da Jose, Bang Tumapat and chairman Atty.Carmelo Arcilla, who made the ceremonial jumpball.