Think God upsets UB by ‘come from behind’ victory
The Province of La Union continues to
make its strong presence felt in basketball as the Think God Basketball Team of
BM Manuel Victor “Mannix” R. Ortega, Jr. spoiled the eminent victory of the
University of Baguio (UB) Men’s Basketball Team in an exhibition game held last
July 22 at Easter School, Baguio City via an 83-76 come from behind victory.
During the first quarter, veterans MackyMondina, AtongCariño,
Melvin Fontanilla, Max Pulido and Board Member Mannix were able to tie the
score at 23 apiece. For the second quarter, new young recruits made up of
Christian Corpuz, Charles Tristan Alviar, Rico Francisco and Mathew Forlaje led
the team of La Union. But after and 3rd quarter, the University of
Baguio Cardinals’ lead ballooned to 17 points. Like a true veteran, Board
Member Mannix decided to sit down and concentrate in coaching the team.
He instructed Fontanilla to release three points and make
strong drives to fish priceless fouls. He also advised the newcomers to
make their presence felt under the board and show their scoring
potentials. Like loyal soldiers, Fontanilla released a foray of three
pointers, successfully sinking in seven shots from his 10 attempts. All
in all, the former Philippine Basketball League star contributed 41 points, nine rebounds and 4 assists.
With the monstrous rebounds and timely screens provided by
Cariño, Pulido and Mondina, the neophytes proved their worth as they chipped in
21 combined points. The victory silenced the hometown crowd.
Board Member Mannix congratulated the team, especially the
new players, for giving all their efforts like true athletes.
The Think God Basketball Team has been responsible for the
growing popularity of basketball in the province. It has been conducting
free basketball clinics to kids in the province especially in far-flung
areas. It does not only enhance basketball skills but it also instills
the value of sportsmanship and camaraderie. In advocating righteousness, the
group also distributes free rosaries other than the free basketballs and
jerseys that it gives to successful trainees. For such feat, the Think
God Basketball Team was accorded with the Basi Award during the Pammadayaw 2014
in celebration of the Province’ 164th Foundation Anniversary. It is
an award given to Non-Government Organizations based in La Union that have
contributed to the progress and development of the province. (Israel O. Rudio/PITO-LU)
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