The UNTV Cup Executive Face Off was rocked by an exhilarating performance on October 8, 2025 at the Amoranto Arena, as the BJMP Greyhounds soared to a decisive 90-75 victory over the veteran Ombudsman Graftbusters to secure the coveted Battle for Third place.
This final game, a showcase of the league's competitive spirit, saw the Greyhounds dominate the court, leaving no doubt about their determination to finish the tournament on a high note. The victory is not just a statistical win; it solidifies the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s team as a major force to be reckoned with in the public service basketball league.
This bronze finish is particularly historic and impressive for the BJMP Greyhounds, a team considered the "rookie sensation" of the Executive Face Off. Entering the league with no prior experience, they were the clear underdogs, facing established teams with deep rosters and seasoned players.
However, their campaign was a continuous display of grit, heart, and teamwork that consistently defied expectations, culminated by this significant win over one of the league's formidable opponents, the Ombudsman Graftbusters. Their journey from dark horse to a top-three contender is a thrilling narrative of an upstart proving its mettle against all odds.
Leading the charge for the Greyhounds' monumental victory was their standout player, Ricky Pegalan, who put on a spectacular show to earn the Best Player of the Game honors. Pegalan was a force on both ends of the court, delivering a blistering performance of 31 points, along with 2 assists and 3 steals.
His scoring explosion was the engine that powered the team's offense, allowing the Greyhounds to pull away from the Graftbusters and maintain a comfortable lead throughout the closing periods.
The spectacular third-place finish by the BJMP Greyhounds is a testament to the fact that sheer determination can overcome a lack of experience. Having battled their way through the elimination and quarter-final rounds with stunning upsets—a feat in itself for a new team—they now stand proudly on the podium.
The team's rookie run will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration, demonstrating that in the UNTV Cup, where wins equate to charity for their chosen beneficiaries, every drop of sweat and every game-winning shot brings them closer to a noble cause.