THE Green Lancers defeat Naga City Academy in first of their best-of-three PCCL 2018 national championship in Davao City.

Visayas-Mindanao champion University of the Visayas Green Lancers grabbed Game 1 of the best-of-three PCCL 2018 national championship by beating Naga City Academy, 76-72, Thursday afternoon at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle and Fitness Center gym in Matina, Davao City.

Rey Suerte poured in 21 baskets as Gileant Delator added 16. Michael Maestre and Bassieru Sackor scored identical eight points.

Both teams engaged in a see-saw battle, figuring in a series of lead changes with UV taking the first quarter lead, 17-16, but Naga City Academy came back, to grab a 36-35 lead at the break.

Suerte then erupted with eight markers at the start of the third including two free throws as the Green Lancers outscored Naga, 24-16.

UV, however, somehow relaxed in the final period as Naga City Academy dribblers crawled back as they tightened defense and made crucial baskets, to come close, 74-76.

Naga’s import could have tied the match in the fading seconds with his dunk but failed.

Suerte’s free throws wrapped up the match. (Seth Delos Reyes)