Francis Lopez capped his homecoming with a championship and an individual award to boot.
The high-flying former UP Fighting Maroon led Nagoya to a thrilling 92-91 escape over the University of Santo Tomas to rule the 2026 Asiabasket NSAC World Invitational Tournament, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, on Sunday at the Philsports Arena.
Lopez, now in his second year with the Flying Eagles, led the way with 22 points on 9-of-12 shooting, along with seven rebounds and three steals, en route to being named Finals MVP.
But Nagoya needed a late-game escape act to deny UST.
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One-and-done winger Landyn Jumawan caught fire, drilling a huge three-pointer with two minutes left to put the Growling Tigers ahead, 85-84.
Tres Tinkle powered his way inside with 1:14 remaining, converting an and-one to put the Flying Eagles back in front. Ryuto Yasuoka followed with a triple to give Nagoya a five-point cushion.
After Jumawan missed from deep, Nelson Phillips split his free throws to make it 89-85. Jumawan then knocked down another three to keep UST within striking distance.
Takaya Sasayama split his free throws with five seconds left to put Nagoya ahead, 92-88. Jumawan answered with another triple, cutting the deficit to one, but time expired on the Growling Tigers’ comeback bid.
Tinkle added 24 points for Nagoya, while Phillips chipped in 16.
The Flying Eagles defeated Far Eastern University, 97-87, in the opening round before ousting San Beda University, 77-66, in the semifinals.
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UST, meanwhile, had a tougher path to the championship game.
After cruising past Tenri University, 88-65, the Growling Tigers needed two overtimes to eliminate the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, 97-92.
Jumawan paced UST in the final with 20 points built on five three-pointers, along with seven rebounds and three assists.
Tournament MVP Collins Akowe added 20 points on 6-of-7 shooting and 12 rebounds, while Amiel Acido contributed 18 points off the bench.
The Flying Eagles now head back to Japan for the inaugural B.League One season, while the Growling Tigers begin the final stretch of their preparations for UAAP Season 89.
