Alpha Omega showed its resilience as they clawed their way back against Davao Occidental-Cocolife to an 88-87 victory in the 2023-24 PSL President’s Cup on Saturday at Paco Arena.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Alpha Omega overcoming a 15-point deficit.
The triumvirate of hot-shooting Adrian Celada, former PBA player Jon Gabriel, and Charles Callano orchestrated a balanced offensive onslaught for Alpha Omega.
Celada, with his precision from beyond the arc, contributed 19 points, including four crucial three-pointers.
Gabriel displayed his veteran prowess with 16 points and eight rebounds, while Callano orchestrated plays from the backcourt, tallying 14 points, three rebounds, three assists, and a steal.
The turning point came when versatile guard Mark Doligon sank the go-ahead basket with just 1:01 left in regulation.
Alpha Omega’s defense then stepped up, making critical stops in the final two offensive thrusts by the Tigers, sealing their comeback win.
Meanwhile, Novaliches delivered a convincing performance against DisiplINAdos-Shawarma Shack, dominating the court with a 69-58 victory.
Jomel Landayan and Deo Timajo spearheaded the offensive charge, combining for 26 points.
Mark Atabay emerged as an unstoppable force in the shaded lane, notching a double-double with 10 points and an impressive 15 rebounds.
With this commanding performance, Novaliches asserted their dominance early in the season.
Both Novaliches and Alpha Omega now stand alongside opening day victors Manila in the early lead of the PSL President’s Cup.
The competition, featuring 17 teams, promises an exciting season filled with intense matchups and fierce competition.
