Cebuano Jonathan Manalili helps Letran Squires capture NCAA juniors crown

Young Cebuano wingman Jonathan Manalili helped lead the Letran Knights capture its first high school basketball title in 22 years after they defeated the La Salle Greenhills in Game 2, 77-61, on Thursday evening at the San Andres Sports Complex.

Manalili had a complete ballgame, registering 16 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, a steal and two blocks to help the Squires complete a sweep in the best-of-three affair and end Letran’s 22-year title drought in the NCAA’s juniors division.

Jovel Baliling led the way with 19 points while Finals MVP Andy Gemao added 14 points, five boards, two assists, and two steals. Gemao, the Iligan City native, averaged 17.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in the series.

A more decisive Letran set the tempo early on as they brought a 38-28 lead to halftime, thanks to a 10-2 run. The lead eventually reached a high of 15 as the Squires kept the pressure up until the final buzzer.

Another Cebuano, Seven Gagate, had 11 points and 18 boards, for La Salle Greenhills.