Zamboanga Valientes racked up back-to-back victories in the 3rd Gov. Ann K. Hofer Open Invitational Basketball Tournament on Tuesday night at the Cultural & Sports Center in Sibugay.
After a 95-91 victory against College of St. Benilde on Monday, the Zamboanga Valientes drew crucial contributions from Mike Tolomia, Vic Manuel, and Malick Diouf to fend off De La Salle University, 72-68, for a 2-0 start in the pocket tourney.
“First and foremost, I’m very happy for the entire team. Everyone worked hard for this win. I especially want to give credit to our veteran players, Vic Manuel, and our import, Malick Diouf, who played exceptional defense in the crucial final seconds,” said head coach Bobidick Delos Santos.
Down by six points with two minutes left, Manuel showcased his PBA experience, draining a huge triple and sinking a floater in under 25 seconds to cut the deficit down to one, 67-68, with 1:38 remaining.
On the next play, Manuel stripped Jacob Cortez and found Tolomia for an easy fast-break layup, giving the home squad a 69-68 edge with 1:15 left.
Diouf, who brought energy off the bench throughout the contest, stepped up defensively—blocking Luis Pablo and Mike Phillips on back-to-back possessions. He then secured a crucial offensive rebound off a Manuel miss and converted a putback to extend the lead to 71-68.
The Green Archers had a chance to force overtime, but JC Macalalag missed a wide-open triple from the left corner. Manuel then split his free throws with 7.5 seconds left to seal the win as the Zamboanga Valientes finished the game on a blistering 10-0 run.
Manuel poured 10 of his team-high 17 points in the fourth quarter, while Diouf and Prince Caperal added 12 and 11 points, respectively, in the Zamboanga Valientes’ second-straight win.
Tolomia and Italian-Maltese center Sam Deguara each contributed seven markers, while Kyt Jimenez and Carl Bryan Cruz had five points apiece.
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