Pegs’ Mark Aycardo pulls up for the midrange jumper during a game against New Changming in the men’s open division of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2024 at the Ada gym on Monday.
Pegs’ James Kintz finishes at the rim over two defenders during a game against New Changming in the men’s open division of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2024 at the Ada gym on Monday.
WITH 10 seconds left on the clock, a defensive rebound found Pegs’ James Kintz on the other end of the court where he connected the game-winning layup to edge New Changming, 70-68, in the men’s open division of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2024 at the Ada gym on Monday night.
From start to finish, both teams constantly fought for control.
In the opening quarter, Pegs controlled the pace with teamwork and sheer hustle. Rey Olopai led the offensive run with six points while the rest of the team played their roles accordingly to lead by a comfortable distance, 20-13.
Although Olopai was nowhere to be found throughout the second period, Mark Aycardo and James Kintz took over the frontline. Olopai’s absence did come at a cost, however, as New Changming slowly closed the gap thanks to the post work of Daryl Foronda and Ronald Bernardo, who combined for 11 points to bring them back with a one-point deficit, 37-38.
New Changming returned from the halftime break with momentum on their side as they picked up where they left off with their own series of offensive attacks highlighted by teamwork. Fortunately for Pegs, Rannie Hizon stepped up when needed, scoring five crucial points to trail, 52-55.
In the fourth and final quarter, New Changming tried to secure a proper lead, but struggled to find the bottom of the net due to Pegs’ pressure defense. With each successful stop, the Pegs delivered on the other end to put the game at a deadlock, 68-68, with less than 15 seconds left on the clock.
New Changming’s Juan Camacho had the chance to seal the deal with a drive toward the hoop but missed the hook shot. Pegs managed to secure the possession with a defensive rebound and looked toward the other end of the court where James Kintz was waiting for a fastbreak opportunity. Despite Elmer Esdrelon able to contest, Kintz connected the game-winning shot to secure victory, 70-68.
In the second game of the night, Lakay finally snapped their losing streak by outlasting Shirley’s, 89-83.
Scores
Pegs 70 – James Kintz 15, Rannie Hizon 11, Ryan Bayna 10, Rey Olopai, 8 Mark Aycardo 8, Manuel Bondad 5, Gerard Duque 2, Julius Domine 3, Justin Dominguez 2, Andrew Sy 2
New Changming 68 – Ronald Bernardo 10, Juan Camacho 8, Christian David 8, Su Diwa 7, Daryl Foronda 7, Ivan De Vero 6, Elmer Esdrelon 6, Rodel Pastrana 5, Mark Ferrer 3, Jeter Medina 3, JV Baking 2, Alex Standish 1
