After a string of disappointing defensive outings, the Titan Ultra Giant Risers finally showed the grit and discipline fans had been waiting for. For four straight games, the team looked lost on defense — late on rotations, slow in transition, and unable to protect the paint. Every opponent seemed to score at will, and frustration began to build among both the players and the coaching staff.

But in their most recent match, the story changed. The Giant Risers locked in defensively, stifling their opponents and securing a much-needed 97–86 victory. For a team that had been giving up over a hundred points per game, holding an opponent under 90 was a statement. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about finally showing pride and effort on the end of the floor that matters most.

From the opening tip, the energy felt different. The team communicated better, switched with confidence, and played with purpose. Guards chased shooters off the line, while the big men held their ground inside. Every possession felt like a collective effort — no one taking plays off, no one shying away from contact. It was the kind of defensive performance that builds identity.

Leading the charge were veterans who reminded everyone of what experience can bring. Calvin Abueva’s intensity was contagious, grabbing key rebounds and diving for loose balls. Meanwhile, Fran Yu and Joshua Munzon provided the perimeter pressure that disrupted Phoenix’s offensive flow. The result was a second-half surge that completely turned the game around.

Coach Johnedel Cardel’s post-game remarks summed it up best: the win came down to heart and trust. The players bought into the system and believed that solid defense could fuel their offense. Once they began forcing turnovers and limiting easy shots, their transition game started to click — a reminder that good defense always creates good offense.

The victory also served as a turning point for the franchise. After four games of inconsistent play, the Giant Risers finally looked like a team capable of competing with the league’s best. Their ability to make defensive adjustments showed maturity, something that had been missing earlier in the season. It proved that when they commit to effort and communication, they can control the tempo and dictate the game.

Moving forward, the challenge will be maintaining this defensive mindset. One strong performance is a start, but consistency is what separates contenders from pretenders. If the Giant Risers can keep up this energy — staying active, talking on defense, and playing for each other — they have a real chance to climb in the standings.

For now, though, their recent win stands as a reminder of what they’re capable of. After weeks of being criticized for defensive lapses, the Giant Risers finally rose to the challenge. In a league that rewards toughness and teamwork, that single game could mark the true beginning of their rise.

The Scores

Titan Ultra 97 – Abueva 23, Munzon 18, Yu 14, Melecio 11, Pessumal 10, Flores 7, Ambohot 5, Balanza 5, Dionisio 3, Cuntapay 1, Monje 0, Barasi 0, Ular 0, Sumang 0.

Blackwater 86 – Barefield 18, Mallilin 17, David 15, Panopio 15, Tratter 6, Mendoza 5, Guinto 4, Escoto 2, Una 2, Andrade 2, Cruz-Dumont 0, Murrell 0, Zamar 0, Jopia 0.

Quarter scores: 20-18; 42-47; 71-67; 97-86.