DOHA:  TEAM One Family narrowly escaped its first encounter with Mabuhay squad and clinched the first win in the best-of-3 championship series for the Pinoy Basketball of Qatar (PIBAQ) President Alvita Cup 2014 held at Al Gharafa Training Gym recently.

A mere single point separated the fate of the two powerhouse teams during the thriller match. The final score was 80-79.

The patience and hard work of the team of Coach Noli Raagas paid off especially in the dying seconds of the final quarter when Mabuhay cagers failed to score despite several free throw opportunities.

Mabuhay’s star player Eric Tamayo was in his usual top form and scored 25 points. But despite his show of big heart to secure the lead in the championship series, his team’s efforts fell short to stop the momentum of One Family to be one step ahead in the tournament.

Anthony Isip emerged as the hero of One Family contributing 29 points. Teammate Sajid Padilla also worked doubly hard and contributed 17 points.

Fans are expecting another nail-biting match during the second game of the series to be held on Friday.

Meanwhile, it was a walk in the park for Palmeras TFCMI during its game with Batang Sanna. Palmeras took the third place in the tournament with a 16 points lead against Sanna. The final score was 75-59.

The ongoing 15th season of PIBAQ Men’s Basketball league is being presented by Diana Jewerelly & Watches , Boracay Filipino Restaurant and August Sports Tailoring.