March 30, 2025
by Val Aldrick Pajuay
Pantukan, Davao de Oro- The AISAT Aviators suffered a tough defeat against Kolehiyo ng Pantukan (KNP) with a final score of 79–70. The championship game of the Mayor Jhong Ceniza – Kuya Noy Ceniza Inter-Collegiate Basketball Tournament was held at the MIU Gym, Municipality of Pantukan. AISAT Aviators were hailed as the 1st Runner-Up, while Kolehiyo ng Pantukan claimed the Division 2 Championship title.
The AISAT Aviators competed in Division 2 alongside Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (KCAST), KNP, Davao Winchester Colleges Inc. (DWCI), Holy Cross College of Sasa (HCCS), AMYA Polytechnic College, Inc. (AMYA), Saint Mary’s College of Tagum, Inc. (SMCT), and Monkayo College of Arts, Sciences and Technology (MONCAST).
During the championship game, AISAT Aviators maintained the lead from the 1st to the 3rd quarter. However, KNP mounted a strong comeback in the 4th quarter and eventually secured the win.
The elimination match was held on March 2, 2025 (Sunday) at 2:30 PM, where the AISAT Aviators faced DWCI. From the start, AISAT dominated the game—crushing DWCI with an early lead and maintaining their advantage throughout. They finished with an impressive 82–32 victory, earning a place in the semifinals.
In the semifinal match held on March 9, 2025, AISAT faced Saint Mary’s College of Tagum, Inc. (SMCT). The Aviators started strong, ending the first quarter with a 20–24 lead. SMCT fought back fiercely in the second quarter and secured a narrow 64–62 lead by the end of the third. The game was intense and emotional; tensions rose when SMCT’s head coach repeatedly complained to the referees, resulting in two technical fouls and eventual ejection from the game. This loss of composure allowed AISAT to recover and regain control.
A pivotal moment occurred when AISAT’s Paler collided with an SMCT player, drawing an unsportsmanlike foul. SMCT was granted two free throws, but it wasn’t enough to retake the lead. AISAT held on and won 75–78, securing their ticket to the finals. Determined and inspired, the team set their sights on the championship title.
The final game was held on March 19, 2025, where AISAT once again faced KNP. The Aviators showcased their disciplined preparation and teamwork, maintaining control from the 1st to the 3rd quarter. But KNP remained composed and determined. In a critical moment, KNP’s Cose scored two points, followed by a three-pointer from Arellano, tipping the game in KNP’s favor.
AISAT fought back after KNP’s Cose was called for an unsportsmanlike foul, which awarded AISAT two free throws and ball possession. However, momentum quickly shifted again after Nalual from AISAT committed a 5-second violation, returning the ball to KNP. The game concluded with a 79–70 victory for KNP.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, the AISAT Aviators demonstrated unwavering determination, grit, and growth throughout the tournament. From a dominant elimination performance to a hard-fought final, the team proved their passion and sportsmanship.
Being crowned 1st Runner-Up in the Mayor Jhong Ceniza – Kuya Noy Ceniza Inter-Collegiate Basketball Tournament is a testament to their hard work and dedication. With valuable lessons learned and battle-tested experience, the AISAT Aviators are bound to return even stronger—ready to soar higher and chase the championship title once again.