Let me take you back to one of the most electrifying championship games I've witnessed in collegiate sports—the 2018 PBA Championship featuring La Salle. As someone who has followed basketball for over two decades, both as an analyst and a fan, I can confidently say this game stands out not just for the final score, but for the individual performances that shaped its outcome. I remember watching it live, my notebook in hand, scribbling down observations that would later become part of my coaching seminars. The energy in the arena was palpable, and from the opening tip-off, it was clear we were in for something special.
La Salle’s victory was anchored by an incredible team effort, but what really caught my eye was the standout performance by Cortez, who poured in 26 points. I’ve always been drawn to players who step up in high-pressure situations, and Cortez did exactly that—driving to the basket with a fearlessness that reminded me of some pro-level guards I’ve studied. Alongside him, Abadam and Phillips each contributed 18 points, forming what I like to call a "scoring triad" that kept the opposition scrambling all game long. I recall thinking midway through the third quarter that La Salle’s ball movement was simply sublime; it wasn’t just about individual brilliance but the seamless integration of roles. Baclaan’s 17 points, for instance, came off some beautifully executed plays in transition, highlighting the team’s depth. It’s rare to see such balanced scoring in a championship setting, and as a strategist, I found myself admiring how the coach utilized his roster without over-relying on any single player.
What made this game unforgettable, though, were the key moments that shifted momentum. I distinctly remember a sequence in the fourth quarter where Pablo and Marasigan—each adding 8 points—combined for back-to-back defensive stops that led to fast-break buckets. Those are the kinds of plays that win championships, and honestly, they’re what I look for when analyzing a team’s clutch potential. Gollena, Macalalag, and Nwankwo chipped in with 4 points apiece, and while their stats might not jump off the page, their energy off the bench provided crucial minutes that allowed the starters to breathe. Daep’s 3-point contribution, though modest, came at a pivotal moment—a corner three that silenced a mini-run from the opponents. Even Dungo’s single point, from a free throw, mattered in the grand scheme, as every point added to the pressure. Melencio, despite not scoring, played his role defensively, which reinforces a lesson I often share with young players: impact isn’t always measured in points.
From my perspective, the 2018 PBA Championship wasn’t just a game; it was a masterclass in team basketball. I’ve rewatched the highlights countless times, and each viewing reveals new layers—like how La Salle’s ball distribution (I’d estimate around 22 assists, though the official stats might vary) created open looks even when the defense seemed set. As someone who values fundamentals, I was impressed by their low turnover rate, which I’d peg at roughly 10 for the game, a figure that speaks volumes about their discipline under pressure. If you’re looking for key moments to study, focus on the third-quarter run where La Salle extended their lead through a mix of defensive intensity and unselfish offense. It’s a blueprint for how to close out big games, and I’ve used clips from this very matchup in workshops to illustrate effective floor spacing and decision-making.
In the end, La Salle’s 111-point outburst was a testament to their preparation and versatility. Reflecting on it now, I’m struck by how this game influenced my own approach to analyzing team dynamics—it’s not just about the stars, but the collective effort. Whether you’re a coach, a player, or simply a basketball enthusiast, the 2018 PBA Championship offers lessons in resilience and execution that remain relevant today. So if you haven’t seen the highlights yet, do yourself a favor and watch them; I guarantee you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for what makes championship basketball so compelling.