JUST two days after being formed, the rejuvenated Cebu Greats delivered an impressive performance in the ongoing 2025 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) season Tuesday night, June 24, 2025, at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga.
Despite falling short, 69-66, against the host Pampanga Giant Lanterns, the Cebu Greats -- coached by Junthy Valenzuela -- put up a strong fight and challenged the two-time champions in the final stretch.
With 2:24 left in the game, Pampanga held a comfortable 68-61 lead and looked out of reach, but Cebu refused to fold. Sparked by Jun Manzo’s late heroics -- a three-pointer and a layup in the final 44 seconds -- the Greats cut the deficit to just two, 68-66.
Then came a glimmer of hope when Mark Meneses stole the ball from Pampanga’s Jhaymo Eguilos with 19 seconds remaining and passed it to Paul Desiderio for a potential game-winning three-point shot with 12 seconds left.
However, luck wasn’t on their side, as Desiderio’s shot missed, ending the Cebu Greats’ thrilling comeback bid.
Contrary to expectations, the Cebu Greats, under new management and coach, played impressively and fiercely against Pampanga, a champion team currently ranked in the top five with a 13-4 record.
The Cebu Greats, formerly known as the Cebu Classic, were ranked 23rd with a 4-13 record.
Their gutsy effort drew praise from netizens and several sportswriters.
“Ang laki nang improvement ng Cebu Greats (The improvement of Cebu Great is significant,)” said Snow Badua, a veteran sportswriter based in Manila.
“So close. If Paul’s three-pointer had gone in, they would have won,” said Dexter Dayondon.
“Hope some Visayan players from other teams will also play for Cebu Classic,” posted Justine Abadejos.
Manzo led the Cebu Greats with 20 points, five rebounds and six assists, while Jan Jamon added 11 points.
Pampanga’s new recruits Allen Mina and Larry Muyang scored 14 and 13 points, respectively, for the Giant Lanterns mentored Dennis Pineda.
The Cebu Greats will play again on July 3, taking on the Biñan Tatak Gel Beast Motorcycle GameX at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna. / JBM