MANILA—DOJ Radiance outlasted the Executive Branch Commanders in a 66-62 thriller to capture their first win in the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2026 on September 9 at the Paco Arena. 

In a tightly contested Game 2, DOJ held their ground during crunch time to jump to a 1-0 record, handing the Commanders an opening 0-1 setback.

Best Player of the Game Nonilon Tagalicud anchored DOJ’s hard-fought victory with a stellar all-around stat line. 

Tagalicud paced Radiance with 15 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, handed out 2 assists, and swiped 2 steals, asserting his presence on both ends of the floor whenever Executive Branch threatened to pull ahead.

Reflecting on the crucial triumph, Tagalicud emphasized the competitive nature of their opponents. 

“A good way to start the season is panalo agad and hindi naman natin pwedeng maliitin itong ating kalaban dahil magaling talaga ang Executive department and kudos to them,” he said, giving credit to the resilient Commanders squad.

Tagalicud noted that securing an early-season win provides Radiance with pivotal momentum as the competition heats up. 

By establishing a winning rhythm on opening week, DOJ positions itself strength-wise ahead of even tougher matchups in the executive division.

With the victory in hand, DOJ Radiance proved they have the composure and execution needed to close out tight ballgames. 

The team now turns its attention to building on this momentum and refining their defense as they push deeper into the UNTV Cup EFO 2026 tournament.

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