By Madz Mercado, Senior Correspondent 

VANCOUVER, CANADA -  The rivalry between Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University ended in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

In the recently concluded ICSA Filipino Basketball League in Vancouver, the champion Sto. Nino team was led by two individuals from archrival schools DLSU and ADMU. Team manager and coach Michael Castro is a De La Salle University alumnus while team consultant Mads Mercado is the former president of the Ateneo Alumni of BC.

“This clearly illustrates how two rival schools can unite and build a championship team. This collaboration has been a success, that’s for sure,” said Mercado.

Sto. Nino successfully defended their title against Ron’s team 47-40, cementing their legacy as one of the most successful Filipino basketball teams in Vancouver.

“It is a satisfying victory. Talent wins games but teamwork and intelligence wins championships,” said Castro.

The Sto. Nino team, led by finals MVP J.P. Bahena, is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

The organizing team of the tournament is headed By Bhoy Tambogan, Mara Marquez, and Jun Legaspi. Raffy Swap One provided the half-time entertainment.