By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Hua Siong College of Iloilo emerged victorious in the 2023 Chairman’s Cup 17-Under championship held at the Iloilo Sports Complex Gymnasium in Iloilo City. In a thrilling comeback, Hua Siong overcame a double-digit deficit in the first half to defeat the talented HM Truck Parts team, 89-86.
HM Truck Parts started the championship match with a flurry of three-pointers, building a substantial 13-point lead after the first quarter. Chad Cartel, the main scorer from the University of San Agustin, led the charge for HM Truck Parts with an impressive offensive display.
However, Hua Siong College, the reigning champions of the ILOPRISAA high school tournament, came alive in the second quarter. They employed their trademark full-court defensive scheme, spearheaded by Jid Locsin and the rest of their backcourt, who intensified their efforts on the defensive end, forcing several steals. Hua Siong’s three-point shooting improved, and their aggressive play in the paint, led by Rymanuel Montinola, helped them claw their way back into the game.
The second half became a closely contested battle, with both teams exchanging baskets. Despite HM Truck Parts sinking multiple three-pointers in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, Hua Siong consistently responded with crucial scores. With only 40 seconds remaining and trailing by one point, Hua Siong regained the lead after Locsin was fouled on a drive to the basket. Locsin made both free throws, giving Hua Siong an 87-86 advantage.
In the final moments, Hua Siong executed a clean steal to extend their lead to 89-86. HM Truck Parts had an opportunity to tie the game and force overtime, but their long-range three-point attempt fell short, and Hua Siong secured the rebound.
In the 15-under and 12-under categories, St. Robert’s International College-Elite Lab dominated, winning both divisions. This achievement mirrored their success in the previous year when they emerged victorious in the 21-under and 17-under categories.
