Newly-crowned National Collegiate Athletic Association champion San Beda University was in high spirits when it celebrated its annual Christmas party last Wednesday at the Meralco Recreational Hall.
But what made the event truly special was the presence of the man they call “MVP.”
San Beda team manager Jude Roque said Pangilinan served as a gracious host when they had their Yuletide celebration that came a week after winning the Season 99 men’s basketball crown.
With the departure of veterans, the Red Lions flew under the radar.
They had to win their last four matches in the eliminations to make it to the Final Four. Eventually, they bagged the third spot and met powerhouse twice-to-beat Lyceum of the Philippines University for a spot in the best-of-three finals.
But the Red Lions refused to get intimidated.
They roared to an 89-68 win in their first encounter before sealing an 82-72 triumph to book a trip to the best-of-three finals for the first time in four years.
Against a red-hot — and very hungry — Mapua University side, the Red Lions struggled, absorbing a 63-68 setback to inch closer to their first title in 32 years.
Again, the hearts of the Lions prevailed.
San Beda booked a 71-65 win in Game 2 before hammering a 76-66 win in Game 3 to complete the miraculous title run.
Jacob Cortez served as the hero as he refused to quit despite being hampered with cramps and a massive Mapua crowd that was cheering its hearts out in a bid to fire up the Cardinals in bringing the title back to Intramuros.
Roque said the celebration of their Christmas party was different from the previous years.
“Team is in high spirits after the championship,” Roque said, adding that the presence of their top patron — Pangilinan — inspired the players to work in a bid to re-erect the San Beda dynasty.
“What a way to celebrate the holiday season, especially in the company of our chairman, Boss MVP.”
Did Pangilinan give something “extra” to the gutsy Lions?
Roque kept the question hanging.
“I can’t reveal but there’s a reward,” he said, adding that Pangilinan, the MVP of Philippine sports, delivered another winning dunk.
