The Quezon City District 1 Warriors won the 2025 Tokai Fil Basketball Invitational Games championship, defeating Nagoya Gakuin University 70-56 at the Nagoya Gakuin University gym last weekend.
Quezon City Representative Juan Carlos Atayde of the First District -- who backs the team -- praised the players' "heart and determination."
The Warriors avenged an earlier loss to Nagoya Gakuin University with a strong defensive performance in the final quarter, outscoring their opponents 17-10.
Patrick Buena and Borris Mvogo each scored 13 points, and Joeben Loria added 11, leading the Warriors to their second international title. They previously won the Mutant 2024 Cahaya Lestari Surabaya Cup International Invitational League Under-23 Senior Basketball Boys’ Division crown in Indonesia last June.
“We knew we were up against tough competition, but our players rose to the challenge,” Atayde said. “Their heart, discipline, and refusal to back down -- especially in the home court of the opposition -- reflect the true spirit of Filipino athletes. I am incredibly proud of them.”
Coached by two-time PBA champion Derrick Pumaren, the Warriors rebounded from a 78-82 loss to Nagoya Gakuin University with an 81-68 victory over Hamamatsu Gakuin University. They then won a 76-73 semifinal against Jifu Seryu Heroes.
“We knew it would be a challenge to win it all, but I always believed in the talent of our players,” Pumaren said.
“They exceeded expectations, and this win is a testament to their dedication. There’s still work to be done, but for now, we just want to celebrate this achievement. We are grateful to Cong. Arjo Atayde and his family for their support; we would not be here without them,” he added.
The team also included Warren Calara, Ryan Arceo, Jerome Santos, Dave Bernabe, Franz Diaz, Jason Puray, and Christian Jake Agoncillo, all selected from tryouts in Atayde’s D1 Basketball League.
Atayde, an advocate for youth and sports development, supports grassroots programs in various sports.
“This victory is more than just a championship -- it’s proof that with the right support, Filipino athletes can shine on any stage,” Atayde said.