Behind stellar showings from Miguel Tan, Ryan Yu, and Joshua Yee, the Quezon City Stars were able to claim the North Division championship in the under-16 Metro Basketball Tournament of the Metro Manila Sports Fest. The Stars edged out the Valenzuela Workhorses, 72-62, Thursday at the San Isidro Gym.
“Winning this championship means a lot to this boys and the city,” said head coach John Paul Ycasiano. “Winning both the 16-under crown is a great achievement for the city.”
Quezon City will face South Division Champion Taguig City in the best-of-three Finals, starting on Tuesday, April 22, at the Hagonoy Gym in Taguig.
But it would not have been possible without the troika of Filipino-Chinese prospects.
Yee provided the spark right in the very first quarter. He was able to finish with 18 points, four rebounds, and four steals. Providiing the support was Ryan Yu, son of Rain or Shine owner Raymund Yu, who talling 13 points, five rebounds, and three assists.
When Valenzuela tried to creep in the final frame, Tan provided the finishing touches to buck the Workhorses. The former Batang Gilas player had a monster double-double with 20 points and 17 rebounds.
“We will go all out against Taguig,” vowed Ycasiano, whose team is supported by QC Mayor Herbert Bautista. “I’m hoping that lady luck will be on our side.”
Joshua Salinel paced Valenzuela with 20 points and 18 rebounds.
