THE Davao Jones Academy (DJA)-bannered Team Mindanao emerged champion in the Tapang at Malasakit National Finals basketball tournament after surviving Luzon, 89-87, in the title clash held Tuesday, October 30, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Askiah John Echavia romped away with the most valuable player (MVP) award after pouring in 37 points on top of 15 rebounds to avenge their elimination round loss.

Ken Jigger Ceno also canned 21 points to tow the Rael Diaz-coached DJA towards its first national title.

“We considered this as one of the greatest experience so far after the team failed to represent Davao City in the National Batang Pinoy 2018 National Finals,” said Diaz who dedicated the win to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and to Goldie Delvo.

Diaz and the rest of the team appreciated the experience.

“To compete outside of your comfort zone is very challenging and you will feel discomfort but with the exchanges of efforts and ideas of my coaches, there is a force that really drove us to form counter measures against the plays of Team Luzon,” he added.

The Mindanao team also leaned on the services of Nico Cabalhin, Steven Lee Bryle Cordova, Clarck Xavier Abracia, John Sanchez, Ivan Lavador, Hobbie James Abolencia, Mark Jeron Cabeza, Japet Galupo, Eldrid Ireneo De Jesus III and Leeshane Frouze Constantino.