JRU Completes Perfect Campaign, Captures University Belt Basketball Cup Crown

Jose Rizal University enters its preparations for NCAA Season 102 on a high note after completing an undefeated run in the 2026 University Belt Basketball Cup presented by Home Credit.

The Heavy Bombers finished off a remarkable tournament campaign by defeating Emilio Aguinaldo College, 66–56, in the championship game on Thursday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum. The victory sealed a perfect 10–0 record and reinforced JRU’s credentials ahead of the upcoming collegiate basketball season.

Locked in a close battle for much of the contest, JRU created separation midway through the fourth quarter. Holding a narrow 57–53 lead, the Heavy Bombers closed the game with a commanding 9–1 run to put the championship beyond reach.

Leading JRU’s title charge throughout the tournament was Mapúa University transfer Lawrence Mangubat, who earned Most Valuable Player honors. He delivered another solid all-around performance in the final, tallying nine points, nine rebounds, and six assists.

Chris Hubilla, another former Mapúa standout, spearheaded the offense in the championship game with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Jalen Garcia also played a key role, contributing 12 points while shooting an efficient 6-of-9 from the field as JRU showcased its balanced attack.

The Generals were paced by EJ Castillo and MJ Raymundo, who scored nine points each. However, EAC struggled to keep up with JRU’s late-game execution and was unable to mount a comeback in the closing stretch.

JRU’s dominance was evident from the start of the tournament. The Heavy Bombers swept the elimination round with a 7–0 record, defeating University of Santo Tomas, College of Saint Benilde, Adamson University, Fatima University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Saint Clare College, and Far Eastern University.

They maintained their winning form in the playoffs, edging Centro Escolar University, 70–67, in the quarterfinals before outlasting UST, 85–82, in an overtime thriller in the semifinals. Mangubat starred in that victory with 19 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds.

EAC’s road to the championship was considerably tougher. The Generals first survived a tiebreaker against Arellano University to advance to the quarterfinals, then defeated Saint Clare, 81–72, before pulling off a stunning 85–81 upset of defending champion National University in the semifinals behind standout performances from Wilmar Oftana and Raymundo.

In the third-place game, San Beda University claimed the bronze medal after an impressive 80–66 victory over UST. RC Calimag led the Red Lions with 27 points, highlighted by seven three-pointers.