The defending champion Centro Escolar University Scorpions continues to reign over the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum (UCAL) after clinching the first game of its sixth season, 74-71, on January 20 at the Paco Arena, Manila.
With an intense push-pull match, the Scorpions managed to upset the determined newcomers Manila Central University Supremos as rookie Dylan Darbin pulled off a triple with two seconds left to the game, narrowly taking the win.
Helping Darbin is another rookie Daniel Marcelo and team captain Franz Diaz with 13 points each, making the latter player of the game.
The UCAL, formerly known as the Universities and Colleges Basketball League, is now using its original brand as it intends to showcase more sports in the league, including volleyball and e-sports.