Nueva Ecija D’ Generals rule NBTC North Luzon Regionals; RSY Group triumphs in Mindanao

The Nueva Ecija D’ Generals ruled the NBTC North Luzon Regional Championship on Tuesday, while RSY Group of Companies captured the Mindanao Regional title held last January 18.

Jhonlord Cruz spearheaded Nueva Ecija’s 91–89 victory over the Marlins of Bulacan in the finals held at the University of Baguio.

Cruz finished with 19 points and 23 rebounds, capping a dominant Northern Luzon campaign that also saw him grab 27 rebounds in their semifinal win against Yes Mariveles.

Fellow Mythical Team member Jairus Armendez added 19 points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals, while Alfie Jay Pacaldo posted a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds. Peter Hendrick Jr. chipped in 19 points and four boards.

For Bulacan, Christian James Manlapaz, also a member of the Mythical Five, scored 19 points, while Justine Dave Batibot led the Marlins with 21 points.

Cruz, Armendez, and Manlapaz were named to the Mythical Team alongside Mark Khelvin Macalinao of Bataan and Mark Daniel Dela Cruz of Benguet.

Nueva Ecija and the Marlins secured slots in the NBTC National Finals this March, joined by wildcards Yes Mariveles and the CCDC Admirals of Benguet.

Meanwhile, in Mindanao, RSY Group of Companies defeated Liceo de Cagayan, 75–60, to claim the regional crown.

Duke Solon led the Davaoeños with 22 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals, earning Most Outstanding Player honors for the leg.

RSY Group and Liceo de Cagayan were joined by Off-Campus Residences x Toyomoto and Loverz Gadgets, who also secured regional wildcard berths to the NBTC National Finals.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News