Ecnet Pinamungajan Triumphs in Ungas 21-Under Basketball League Championship Game
In a nail-biting finale at the Pinamungajan Municipal Auditorium on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Ecnet Pinamungajan team emerged victorious in the 1st Ungas 21-Under Basketball League. They defeated the favored Tuburan 360 squad with a final score of 76-73, clinching the championship title in front of a massive and enthusiastic crowd of supporters from both municipalities.
Key Players Lead the Charge to Victory
The dynamic duo of Ralph Emerson Pono and Jan Debutac once again proved instrumental in securing this hard-fought win. Pono delivered an outstanding performance, exploding for 25 points, including two crucial three-pointers in the final minutes, and grabbing 8 rebounds. His efforts earned him the well-deserved Finals MVP honors. Debutac contributed significantly with 23 points, highlighted by four clutch free throws in the dying seconds that effectively sealed the victory for Ecnet Pinamungajan.
A Game of Momentum Shifts and Critical Moments
After trailing early in the first quarter, Ecnet Pinamungajan gradually gained momentum and managed to stay within striking distance of Coach Neophyte Molon’s Tuburan team starting in the second period. The fourth quarter saw Tuburan briefly take control, fueled by the hot shooting of Egil Mortensen, John Lorenz Perales, and Charles Gemarino. Big man Shinrie Wayne Menchavez made his presence felt inside the paint, but his missed free throws in the closing moments proved costly, allowing Ecnet Pinamungajan to take the lead for good and secure the championship.
Tournament Success Hailed by Local Officials
During the awarding ceremony, Councilor Atty. Marvin Miralles, who serves as the Chairman of the Committee on Sports in Pinamungajan, and Vice-Mayor Jecjec Baricuatro formally presented the championship trophy to the Ecnet Pinamungajan team. Miralles expressed his delight at the tournament's success, admitting that he did not anticipate such an intense reception from the residents of Pinamungajan and neighboring towns. The league featured 10 teams representing various municipalities, showcasing widespread community engagement.
"Actually, we really didn't expect the turnout for our 21-under league here in Pinamungajan. We are very happy to see this level of support," said Miralles. He noted that the tournament serves as a timely prelude to the town's upcoming festivities, stating, "This is timely as we are heading toward our Fiesta Cup. We are preparing activities for our fiesta celebration this coming May." Miralles also extended gratitude for the support of the Pinamungajan Local Government Unit, led by Mayor Glenn Baricuatro, and acknowledged the assistance of Commissioner Naknak Tan in organizing the event.
The 1st Ungas 21-Under Basketball League has set a high standard for youth sports in the region, fostering competitive spirit and community pride through thrilling athletic performances.
