The Business & Management (B&M) Vipers redeemed their championship title from the School of Nursing (SON) Panthers in the basketball women’s category, edging them out with a score of 36-31 in a fierce rematch against last year’s rivals.
Throughout the first three quarters, the SON Panthers maintained a clear lead against the B&M Vipers, with Ashanttie Amaneo and Kaye Phoebe Kaye Mariano maintaining said lead with individual double-digit points, garnering 10 and 11 points, respectively.
The first few minutes of the fourth quarter played the same up until B&M Vipers subbed in their second five, which included point guard Kate Buenaventura.
Buenaventura quickly made an impact, sinking key 2-point shots and a free throw to narrow the gap to 30-31, prompting a timeout from the Panthers.
The Panthers called for another timeout in hopes of regrouping, but their shots fell flat in the final three minutes.
Buenaventura launched a relentless offensive barrage of accurate 2-point shots, extending the Vipers’ lead to 36-31 and clinching the victory while earning Player of the Game honors.
Reflecting on the comeback, Buenaventura expressed pride in regaining the championship title from the SON Panthers, especially after trailing for most of the game and only catching up during the last quarter.
“Maka happy and so proud of us because nabalik namin ang title sa cluster. And it also feels unrealistic kasi whole game nag lamang ang kalaban tapos sa last quarter na kami nag lamang, so mas taas yung emotions after ng game.”
Buenaventura emphasized lessons learned from last year’s experience, focusing on improved teamwork and finding open teammates.
“Work as a team, there is no I in team. Always play as one. Always look for the better option, because in terms of basketball, you have to look for the open hand, yung walang nagbabantay.” Buenaventura said.
Despite the SON Panthers’ early dominance, a shift in the Vipers’ lineup during the fourth quarter sparked a change in momentum.
“At the last quarter, we worked more as a team. May naga scream, may naga pasahanay, and then naga intiate kami mag galaw. Whereas yung first three quarters, naga salig lang kami sa one person,” Buenaventura shared.
The Palarong Atenista Basketball Women’s category was held on the 4th floor of Martin Hall on September 27.