The Letran Squires and the Letran Knights continue to dominate NCAA Championships, goes on with their winning culture

Faith Jireh Santos

PUBMAT | Raphael Concepcion

DID YOU KNOW?

Last March 16, 2023, Colegio de San Juan de Letran Squires managed to raise the trophy over the College of Saint Benilde-La Salle Green Hills Greenies with a 77-61 conclusion, as they did a Game 2 sweep at the San Andres Sports Complex in a best-of-three Finals of the NCAA Season ‘98 Juniors Basketball. 

The said championship was considered a milestone as they put an end to the 22-year barren run since 2001 to reclaim the championship title, following the Letran Knights’ footsteps as victors for the same season, the same results, and the double championship feat that last occurred in 1983. With the tally of scores 21-18; 38-28; 56-44; 77-61, their efforts and sacrifices surely reflected the nearly perfect record from elimination up to the last ball game of the season. Even if they did a slow burner in the first half, the juniors restrained the white and green uniforms into taking the lead for the whole game. 

Andy Gemao, the Finals MVP of the Juniors and member of the Mythical Team together with double-digit scorers Jovel Baliling, Jonathan Manalili, and Syrex Silorio, teamed up for an astonishing 61 points. George Diamante was also awarded the Defensive Team and Defensive player awards. The Greenies’ top seeders and Mythical Team which is the graduating twin towers Season MVP Luis Pablo and Most Improved Player Seven Gagate, were also in the Mythical Team and led the squad for their finals appearance.

Letran Knights Season ‘98 Champions Yu, Reyson, Paraiso, Javillonar, and Guarino, the last junior title-holders more than two decades ago,  were seen watching the game, along with JC Intal, RJ Jazul, and Jay-R Reyes. 

With every championship, comes a victory party. This is one of Letran’s signature celebrations as they welcome the Letran Squires inside the campus for a victorious feast. This championship streak will surely motivate the Squires to continue their winning momentum and strive for another championship title next season.

Source/s: 

Anzures, R. (2023, March 16). DOUBLE DOMINATION: Knights and Squires Celebrate Rare Double Championship. https://thelance.letran.edu.ph/Home/ReadMore/1775

Bergado, A. G. (2023, March 16). Letran Squires Crowned as NCAA Juniors Basketball Champions After 22 Years. https://thelance.letran.edu.ph/Home/ReadMore/1773

Galvez, W. (2023, March 16). Letran Squires win NCAA title for first time in 22 years. https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/03/16/sports/letran-squires-win-ncaa-title-for-first-time-in-22-years/1883027

Garcia, J. M. (2023, March 17). Andy Gemao, Letran Squires end NCAA juniors title drought in style. https://www.spin.ph/basketball/ncaa-juniors/letran-squires-beat-benilde-to-win-ncaa-juniors-championship-a5172-20230316