Centro Escolar University narrowly avoided an upset by newcomer Manila Central University, clinching a 74-71 victory at the onset of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 on Saturday, January 20, at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Dylan Darbin emerged as the hero for the defending champions Scorpions, sinking a crucial triple with just two seconds remaining to break the 71-all tie.
That thwarted the Supremos’ attempt at a significant upset on the opening day of the nine-team league presented by Angel’s Pizza.
The loss was a bitter pill for the newcomers to swallow. The Supremos had seemed poised for a memorable debut when they secured a 67-63 lead with barely two minutes left.
However, they faltered, allowing the Scorpions to regroup and secure the victory.
The contest remained tightly contested from the start, with the Supremos surprising the Scorpions with their impenetrable defense.
This was evident in the third quarter, where they limited the Mendiola-based squad to just 11 points.
In contrast, the Supremos, led by Seanne General and Bi Tizie Yannick Dje, amassed 18 points, entering the final period with a 54-51 lead.
CEU, however, refused to be denied as they clawed their way back into the game through the efforts of veterans Franz Ray Diaz, Darbin, and Daniel Marcelo.
Diaz and Marcelo led CEU with 13 points each, followed by Darbin and Abdul Wahab-Olusesi with 12 points each, the latter also securing eight boards.
Mark Anthony Anagbogu also made significant contributions for CEU, tallying 11 points and 5 rebounds.
