Hustle Squad secured a thrilling 96-88 overtime victory over Mordeno Basketball Academy, clinching the 12-under division title of the Throwdown Basketball League held at the Hampton Court in Hillsborough Village, Alabang.
John Andrew Mendoza and Rajko Manicad played pivotal roles in leading Hustle Squad to its first Throwdown title.
Mendoza, a 12-year-old student from Bacoor City Elementary School, showcased an impressive triple-double performance, tallying 25 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists, and four steals.
Meanwhile, Manicad, a Grade 6 student at De La Salle University Integrated School, contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds, and three steals during regulation, helping overpower Mordeno.
Mendoza and Manicad were recognized as the Most Valuable Players of the finals, with Mendoza also earning the season MVP honors in an event widely regarded as one of the most competitive age-group basketball tournaments in Metro Manila.
Additional standout performances came from Frince Espadon, Clancy Giann Rojas, and Adrielle Sayoc, further solidifying Hustle Squad’s dominance.
The 5-foot-9 Espadon recorded 16 points and 13 rebounds, while Rojas contributed 10 points, and Sayoc showcased defensive prowess down the stretch.
Rojas and Sayoc earned spots on the Mythical Team alongside MJ Umerez of Mordeno, Knox Rocha of MLO Basketball, and Zion Miguel de Roxas of Vizier Ballers.
“The boys really wanted to win, so this title is really sweet,” said head coach Ace Abuyen following their dramatic victory over the powerhouse Mordeno side that was bannered by La Salle Green Hills standout Linus Labayani.
“But more than anything, our goal is not just to improve the basketball skills of these boys, but also to develop their attitude while instilling the values of sportsmanship, friendship, unity and respect. I think we were successful with that — and it’s worth more than winning a title.”
Looking ahead, Hustle Squad is gearing up for the Dominance Premier Basketball League, which kicks off this Saturday at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
