Powerful and Defiant: New Lifers Secure Back-to-Back 12U Titles

The MGC New Life Christian Academy (MGCNLCA) 12-Under (12U) basketball team has done it again—winning back-to-back championships for GPSOA! The New Lifers clinched the finals crown over Pateros Catholic School (PCS) in a thrilling best-of-three series held on November 25 and 27.

Game 1

The New Lifers set the tone for the series from the beginning with their intense defensive pressure and seamless teamwork. Sebastian Luis Pinsotes, named Player of the Game, led the team with 16 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and four steals, carrying on both defense and offense. Jeremy Sean Bustos also contributed 14 points, converting turnovers to fastbreak opportunities to keep the offense flowing. By the end of the first half, the New Lifers had established a dominant 24-point lead (39–15).

The second half was similar to the first, with the teams’ tenacious defense and quick ball movement. To start the third quarter, PCS struggled to find their rhythm, as every turnover seemed to fall right into the hands of the New Lifers. Fueled by their determination and teamwork, they crashed the boards and found each other for open looks. The New Lifers closed the game with a 36-point lead (73–37), setting the tone for Game 2. 

Game 2

With just one victory away from another championship, the New Lifers opened Game 2 with relentless defense, immediately taking control of the match. Leading them was Tobey Alexander Hui, who recorded eight rebounds and a staggering nine steals, constantly rattling PCS’s offense. The team’s persistent pressure forced turnover after turnover, sparking fastbreaks and easy buckets. By halftime, the New Lifers had surged to a dominant 43-point lead (51–8), putting PCS in a tough spot for the remainder of the game. 

In the second half, the New Lifers maintained their intensity on both ends of the floor. Their teamwork and discipline remained on full display, leading to more forced turnovers and fastbreak opportunities. Jayron McCrae Tan, named Player of the Game, made his presence felt with 12 points, three rebounds, three assists, and five steals. Jeremy Bustos added 20 points, including 18 in the first half, while the team’s defense remained unyielding. With everyone contributing, the New Lifers closed out the game in commanding fashion, securing back-to-back championships with a 49-point victory (73–24).

The New Lifers’ impressive showing was powered by strong performances from Hui and Tan, both of whom earned spots in the tournament’s Mythical Five. At the same time, Bustos was recognized as the Most Valuable Player for his outstanding contributions.