The Davao Occidental Dreamers prevailed over the Toril Ballers in an epic shootout 119-115 to claim the Liga Dabaw 21U championship.
The first half belonged to the Dreamers, leading the way 64-51 after the first two quarters but the Ballers would mount a second half comeback, wrestling a three point lead midway through the third quarter.
A dogfight then ensued as the two team took turns in taking the lead during the beginning of the fourth quarter.
Midway through the final frame, the Dreamers would go on a 11-2 mini – run to take a 101- 92 lead but the Ballers would mount a comeback that shaved the lead down to one 116-115 with seconds to go.
Finals MVP Jude Paolo Bagay poured in 23 points, 13 rebounds, and sank the two most important free throws of the night, putting the game out of reach.
Marvin Samonte (18 pts, 17 rebs) and Raine Maga (16 pts, 6 rebs, 8 assts) had a field day attacking the paint, supplying the needed firepower for the fastbreak offense.
The backcourt duo of Kyle Jamora (11 pts, 12 assts) and Isaac Go (21 pts, 3 rebs) provided the stabilizing presence whenever the offense got into its halfcourt sets.
The Dreamers are now off to Cebu City for the Pilipinas Super League U21 stint with coach Jess Evangelio at the helm.