Panalite raises first-ever MCBL Gold Division tiara

Sports

TEAM Panalite finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel, ending years of futile campaigns by winning its first-ever Gold Division crown at the Metro Cebu Basketball League (MCBL).

Panalite achieved the feat by nailing a gigantic 93-83 upset win over the defending champions ARQ Builders last Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Cebu City Sports Institute Gym in Barangay Sawang Calero.

Team owner Jethro Lim Imboy along with co-team owners Admar Leoncio and Wilmer Go commended the squad for the achievement that they described as a product of sheer hardwork.

According to the team owners, they built a winning team by bringing in top-tier players and seasoned coaching staff.

“During the off-season, we assembled a powerhouse lineup led by Panalite’s core players—Tawe Cañedo, Aye Calomarde, Jomarie Beldoro, Rex Tuazon, John Poul Banono, and defensive specialist Kline Ochavo—reinforced by veteran import James Ferraren, reliable big man Jason Balabag, and superstar Shane ‘The Game’ Menina. Completing the roster is the explosive guard and high-flyer Albert Ardiente,” said Imboy.

Imboy said the perfect blend of youth, experience, and skill enabled Panalite “to stand out from the rest.”

The squad finished the elimination round with four wins against a single loss.

“Having an elite coaching staff led by head coach Ed Macasling, assistant coach Bogs Llanto, and veteran player-turned-assistant coach Albert Echavarria has been a major factor in guiding our team to success. From day one, I had full confidence that we were built to go deep in the highly competitive MCBL Gold Division,” Imboy said.

Menina went to work in the winner-take-all match, finishing with a game-high 26 points, eight assists, three rebounds, and three steals en route to winning the Finals Most Valuable Player accolade.

Balabag was also effective as he tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds. Ochavo and John Velasco helped Panalite’s cause by chipping in 12 and 10 points, respectively.

Johndel Bagaporo dethroned defending champs with 23 points.

“This championship is a milestone for us, marking our first-ever MCBL title after years of competing in Cebu’s prestigious league. Following two consecutive semifinal finishes, we finally triumphed this season,” Imboy said.(CCM)