The PFC Pelicans secured a hard-fought 67–58 victory over the UPHSD Altas in a compelling contest at the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup on July 6, 2026. The match, which tipped off at 1:00 PM, saw the Pelicans lean on a strong defensive effort and balanced scoring to overcome a determined Altas side. The result keeps the Pelicans on a promising trajectory in the preseason tournament, while the Altas will look to regroup ahead of their next outing.

Match Overview

From the opening quarter, both teams displayed the intensity typical of Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup fixtures, with players eager to make an impression ahead of the collegiate season. The Pelicans built a steady lead through disciplined team play and capitalised on their second‑chance opportunities. The Altas, known for their swift transition game, fought back repeatedly but could not overcome a persistent six‑point gap in the final period. The final score of 67–58 reflects a contest decided more by grit and execution in the half‑court than by any single explosive run.

Key Moments

• First‑Half Control: PFC established a 34–28 lead at halftime after a 10‑2 run late in the second quarter, highlighted by a three‑pointer from their shooting guard that silenced the Altas’ bench.
• Third‑Quarter Push: UPHSD came out of the break with renewed energy, cutting the deficit to two points midway through the third period. However, the Pelicans responded with three consecutive defensive stops and a fast‑break lay‑up to restore a six‑point buffer.
• Clutch Free Throws: In the final two minutes, the Pelicans converted seven of ten free‑throw attempts to seal the win, while the Altas missed several open looks from beyond the arc.

Standout Players

The Pelicans’ frontcourt duo proved decisive. Their power forward recorded a double‑double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring both ends of the floor. The point guard added 12 points and 6 assists, orchestrating the offence with composure under pressure. For UPHSD, their leading scorer poured in 20 points, but inefficient shooting (7‑of‑22 from the field) limited his impact in crunch time. The Altas’ centre also contributed 8 rebounds and 3 blocks, yet the team lacked the secondary scoring needed to flip the scoreline.

Implications for the Preseason Cup

The Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup serves as a vital tune‑up for collegiate teams ahead of their respective leagues. The PFC Pelicans’ victory underscores their defensive identity and depth, marking them as a team to watch as the tournament progresses. Conversely, the UPHSD Altas must address their offensive consistency and shot selection if they hope to advance deeper into the competition. Both squads will benefit from the experience gained in this tight, well‑contested match.