Proving that age is merely a number, the Gilas Legends narrowly defeated the Greg Gasataya Basketball League (GGBL) All-Stars, 93–90, in the charity MassKara Gugma All-Star Game at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum, Saturday, Oct. 4.
Bacolod’s own Jeff Chan fueled the Legends’ offense, sinking a game-high 24 points to power the team through the crucial final minutes.
Despite a valiant effort and a late rally, the GGBL All-Stars ultimately fell short. Kenneth Tulipas paced the All-Stars with 14 points.
The All-Stars seized control briefly in the third quarter after Cedrick Debide delivered a highlight defensive block on Gary David, leading to a fastbreak layup that put them ahead, 63–57, with just over three minutes remaining in the period.
However, Chan remained relentless, calmly sinking two free throws that helped the Legends reclaim the edge, 68–67, heading into the final frame.
Marc Pingris then took center stage in the fourth, muscling his way past the All-Stars’ defense to establish a four-point cushion with three minutes left. His signature energy and antics galvanized the crowd and kept the momentum firmly with the Legends.
The All-Stars tightened their defense to cut the lead to two, but a series of costly turnovers in the final moments sealed their fate, allowing the Legends to secure the hard-fought victory.
The friendly match was held for the benefit of Barangay 27 fire victims.
Mayor Greg Gasataya, alongside celebrity GGBL All-Star cager Rayver Cruz, extended their thanks to all spectators for their support.
Meanwhile, former Cebu City Vice Mayor Dondon Hontiveros, who suited up for the Legends, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Bacolodnons for also extending aid to quake-hit families in his home province.
“We wanted to thank you all for coming and we appreciate all the help and the love for the game,” Hontiveros stated.
The MassKara Gugma All-Star Game served as a highlight sporting event under the MassKaralympics, part of the city’s ongoing 46th MassKara Festival.*