The Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles have set their sights on winning a third title in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa after capturing their first-ever championship in the National Private Schools Athletic Association (Prisaa) secondary basketball tournament. The team, which represents the Central Visayas Region, returned to intense training immediately following their successful campaign in the weeklong Prisaa competition held from May 8 to 15 in Bacolod City.
Palarong Pambansa Preparation
This year's Palarong Pambansa will be staged in Agusan del Sur from May 24 to 31, with the grand opening ceremony at the newly renovated Datu Lipus Makapandong D.O. Plaza Sports Complex. Coach Rommel Rasmo believes their National Prisaa triumph will serve as a huge morale boost for his players, though he acknowledged major challenges ahead. The Magis Eagles have previously won two Palarong Pambansa championships: in 2013 in Dumaguete and in 2023 in Marikina.
Jon Ralp Christopher Jiao Inot, athletic director of Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, expressed pride in the achievement. "I think the fact that the spotlight isn't so much on our team this time is actually a good thing. But one thing is for sure: when the team goes to Palaro, we won't just be there to participate, we'll be there to compete. One goal, one mission, one Magis," Inot said.
Thrilling Prisaa Finals Victory
In the National Prisaa finals, the Magis Eagles survived a huge scare from Western Visayas, represented by St. Robert's International College, winning 62-59. "Honestly, we're really expecting a close fight because we know their capabilities, so it was a difficult game. So, hands off to coach John and St. Roberts," said coach Rasmo. The Magis Eagles secured the win after Kent Basa calmly knocked down two pressure-packed free throws with six seconds left, making it 62-59. Basa then blocked a potential game-tying three-point attempt by Red Doronilla of Western Visayas at the final buzzer.
Despite a cold start, Basa finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Big man Jacob Lacson dominated inside, tallying 13 points (including two three-pointers) and eight rebounds, earning tournament Most Valuable Player honors. Gabriel Gonzales also delivered an impressive performance with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks.
This marked the Magis Eagles' first title since they began representing Central Visayas in the National Prisaa in 2023. They reached the finals in 2024 but lost to Sta. Ana in Legazpi City, and last year settled for third runner-up honors. The team celebrated with parents and supporters after their title-clinching win in Bacolod.
