The University of Perpetual Help System DALTA secured its second straight victory, defeating Emilio Aguinaldo College, 69-60, on Wednesday in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
Beyond solidifying their hold on the top spot in Group A with a 6-1 record, Perpetual head coach Olsen Racela shared that the win was extra meaningful, as it coincided with the birthday of his late mother, Ma. Rosario.
The Racela matriarch, who passed away last July, would have turned 82 on Wednesday.
“Gusto ko lang i-dedicate ‘tong game na ‘to sa mom ko. It’s her 82nd birthday today,” Racela told GMA News Online.
“Kung nandito 'yon, I’m sure nanonood 'yon ng naka-wheelchair,” he added.
Last season, Mrs. Racela was able to watch her son’s team play against San Beda University coached by Yuri Escueta.
Escueta is a first cousin of brothers Olsen Racela of Perpetual and Adamson University head coach Nash Racela.
“She’s been a very big influence on me and the team, and we dedicate this win to her,” Racela said.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
