Bonfire sparks Letran party

Song and dance numbers topped with a bonfire highlighted the victory celebration of Letran College following its conquest in Season 95 National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament late Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

No less than skipper Jerrick Balanza was given the honor to light up the fire in honor to his commitment and sacrifices during his stay with the Knights.

Balanza ended this collegiate career the way he started it.

He was a rookie when Kevin Racal, Mark Cruz and Rey Nambatac carried the Knights past the Red Lions to win the title in 2015. Now, he is leaving the school as the sweet-shooting forward who didn’t quit despite his rollercoaster career.

Also serving as toasts of the night were Final Most Valuable Player Fran Yu as well as Larry Muyang, Bonbon Batiller and head coach Bonnie Tan, who gained ample support from army of professional coaches like Alfrancis Chua, Pido Jarencio, Jeff Napa and even Ginebra playmaker LA Tenorio.

Tan, the soft-spoken mentor, climbed the stage and thanked the Letran community for its all-out support.

Then, he disappeared into the darkness with a promise of leading the Knights to another title run.