EZ Jersey-Doc Boleros claims NBTC North Luzon Regional crown

courtesy of Bon Arevalo/NBTC

CAMANAVA remains the Kings of the North.

EZ Jersey-Doc Boleros swept their way to the 2025 edition of the SMART-NBTC North Luzon Regional Championship, completing their undefeated run with an 87-72 victory over Luid Kapampangan on Sunday at the Central Luzon State University Gymnasium at the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija.

Kenneth Avila was named as the Regional Most Outstanding Player for his performances throughout the tournament, capped off by an eleven-point, six-rebound, two-assist, and three-block stint in the final to ensure a seven-match sweep.

The boys from the northern part of NCR used a strong start to establish themselves and never looked back. Bobet Monterozo scored nine of his thirteen points in the opening period to help his team erect a 28-14 lead after the first quarter.

Ace Baldomero and Richmond Montejo both contributed eleven points each, as they matched last year's feat of Yengskivel Sportswear in becoming both the champions of CAMANAVA and the North Regional.

Although they fell short in the final, Nikko Tipino led Luid Kapampangan with seventeen points and four boards, while Alexis Riño tacked on fifteen points, five boards, and six assists for the Pampanga powerhouse.

Also earning their spots at the National Finals as Regional Wildcards are DPR Aviation College from Plaridel, Bulacan, and i-Achievers Modern College.

The former earned their ticket with a 94-84 victory over Ilocos side Nagbukel National High School. Yhano Micorhain Lacsarum drilled six treys on his way to finishing with 24 points in the matchup.

As for the latter, the squad from General Mamerto Natividad dispatched fellow province-mates Nueva Ecija D'Generals, 84-83. Blyz Taculad completed their comeback from being down twelve in the final five minutes with his tip-in with six seconds remaining.

Joining Avila in the All-Regional team are Rino, Thyrone Barcena (Nagbukel), John Lord Cruz (DPR), and Rain Martin (D'Generals).

Regional action continues in the tournament presented by SM Supermalls and Playtime Cares, and supported by Adidas, Molten, Swish, and JProject, as it is the turn of the Mindanao leg to take the spotlight on February 6-9 at Oroquieta City.