Abra’s winning culture extended to its 21-and-under squad.
Batang Abra dethroned Pasig Apasi by sweeping the Junior MPBL 21U National Finals.
The Weavers completed the sweep of the Timothies with a thrilling 63–60 victory on Sunday at the JRU Gym in Mandaluyong.
With 2.9 seconds left, National University guard Dwyne Miranda found Herrera, an 18-year-old winger who also plays for the JRU Heavy Bombers, who knocked down a cold-blooded triple to put the Weavers ahead.
Jevy Hinoguin attempted a last-second heave, but it was to no avail as Abra secured the title.
“Happy ako sa mga players kasi na-experience nila maglaro sa ganitong level na high physicality. Ito na ‘yung mga next generation na gusto ni Cong. JB Bernos na ma-develop at makatulong sa pagbuo ng winning culture para sa future,” said Batang Abra head coach Denok Miranda, also the father of Dwyne and an assistant coach for NU.
Herrera finished the clincher with 11 points and six rebounds.
Mac Alfanta led the Weavers with 14 points, while Jay Garupil added 11.
Alfanta was the Season MVP while Herrera was adjudged the Finals MVP.
Abra took Game 1, 72–56, last March 8 at the Paco Arena.
Thirdy Malaga, meanwhile, paced Pasig Apasi with 16 points, five rebounds, three steals, and three assists.
Jaymark Lloren and Jevy Hinoguin added 15 and 14 points, respectively.
Completing the Abra lineup are Lawrence Mangubat, Dwyne Miranda, Jid Locsin, Justin Lozano, Jamhir Elgado, Allister Casinillo, Ivan Panapanaan, Jann Barcellano, Jar Tacuboy, Lance Masiglat, Ring Gold Mejia, and Xander Gomez.
Batang Abra’s path to the finals was a tough one.
The Weavers finished second in the North Division with a 5–1 slate, their lone loss a 76–69 defeat to the star-studded Caloocan Batang Kankaloo.
Batang Kankaloo featured the likes of Mark Esperanza, Titing Manalili, George Diamante, Earl Medina, Mathew Rubico, Seven Gagate, and Luis Pablo.
Abra defeated the Quezon City Alpha Giants in the division semifinals via a sweep, 82–59 and 74–50, to set up a division finals clash against Caloocan.
Abra dominated Game 1, 90–63, before Caloocan forced a decider with a 63–59 victory.
In Game 3, Veejay Pre tallied 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Weavers to an 86–76 win.
