ONIC x Nine Lives clinched their first-ever Mobile Legends Development League (MDL) Philippines title after defeating Aurora Hunters, 4-1, in the grand finals held Sunday at GH Mall in San Juan City.
After splitting the first two games, ONIC seized the momentum in Game 3 behind Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara’s (Zhuxin) Maniac, which triggered a game-winning 5-0 wipeout and gave them a 2-1 series lead.
In Game 4, AJ “Kayn” Simbol (Suyou) showcased his strategic brilliance with a diversion play during a chaotic 22nd-minute clash, sneaking in a base turret lock that pushed ONIC to match point at 3-1.
Sionnn (Kimmy) once again delivered the decisive play in Game 5 as his triple kill sparked ONIC’s four unanswered kills during the 14th minute lord fight and ultimately sealed the series for ONIC.
Kayn was named as the grand finals match MVP as his steady performance steered ONIC to the title.
This victory marked a fairytale finish for ONIC x Nine Lives, who completed a remarkable Cinderella run after failing to qualify for the playoffs in the previous season.
Nine Lives is owned by Ateneo de Manila University alumnus and lawyer Atty. C.P. Garcia, whose leadership has helped steer the team to its historic breakthrough.
