THE University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM) Campus continued its winning ways on Tuesday, July 21, defeating the gritty Don Bosco Greywolves, 74-65, to preserve its unbeaten record in the 2026 Emil’s Fiesta Cup Inter-High School Invitational basketball tournament at the Lipata-Linao Sports Complex in Minglanilla, Cebu.
Ace Justin Rojas spearheaded the victory with 18 points, three rebounds, and two steals, earning Best Player of the Game honors.
UCLM asserted control from the opening tip as Rojas caught fire from beyond the arc, helping his team dictate the tempo early.
The UCLM squad stretched its biggest lead to 26 points, 50-24, before closing the half at 52-31.
Don Bosco mounted a furious rally midway through the fourth quarter, trimming the deficit and threatening to get back into the contest. However, the tight defense employed by the wards of head coach Reggie Licanda kept the Greywolves at bay to secure the victory.
Jharivic Liam Arriba paced Don Bosco with 20 points, while Christian Lambayan added 15 markers.
With the win, UCLM improved to 2-0 in Bracket A, strengthening its campaign as one of the tournament’s early title contenders.
Despite the loss, the Don Bosco camp found plenty of positives to build on. Head coach Albert Alocillo, who recently took over the Greywolves, praised his young squad’s resilience and determination against one of the tournament favorites.
“We’re now able to compete. It’s no longer like before. We still have a lot to improve, but I saw their effort and fighting spirit. This is a good learning experience for our players,” said the veteran coach.
With the way they competed against UCLM, the Greywolves are expected to emerge as an even tougher opponent in their upcoming assignments. / JBM
