Draco Unleashes Fire: COE overpowers CASS in PALAKASAN men’s basketball pre-game, 78-5

Following the earlier women’s basketball matchup, the College of Engineering’s (COE) Draco, the Dragon-Troll, defeated the College of Arts and Social Sciences’ (CASS) Cassanova, the Spider-Troll, 78-56 in the men’s basketball pre-game of PALAKASAN 2026, held at the MSU-IIT Gymnasium on Saturday, March 7.


Mirroring the momentum set by their women’s team, COE refused to let their guard down as they maintained control of the game from the first quarter until the final buzzer.

The opening quarter immediately saw both teams battling for possession as CASS aggressively stole the ball early in the game. However, COE quickly responded with speed and coordination, matching the intensity with quick passes and swift drives to the basket.

 

The ball moved rapidly across the court, flying from one side to the other as if fueled by the fiery energy of the tournament’s troll-themed clash. By the end of the first quarter, Draco had already established an early advantage, leading Cassanova with a 25-13 score.


COE continued their strong momentum in the second quarter, pushing their offense with fast breaks and consistent shooting. While CASS attempted to regain their rhythm and close the gap, COE’s defensive pressure and relentless attacks allowed them to widen the margin before halftime. The second quarter ended with COE extending their lead to 48-22.


As the third quarter unfolded, neither team showed signs of slowing down. The game’s pace intensified as both squads fought for every possession, the squeaks of sneakers echoing across the gym floor as players dashed across the court. Despite Cassanova’s efforts to rally and regain momentum, Draco maintained control, ending the quarter with a 64-41 lead.


With the final quarter underway, the pressure intensified as both teams pushed their limits in the closing minutes of the game. Determined to catch up, CASS continued to press their offense, but COE remained composed and protected their lead.


In the final 10 seconds of the game, CASS attempted one last shot in hopes of narrowing the gap. However, the effort fell short as the buzzer sounded, sealing COE’s 78-56 victory.

With the win, COE’s Draco set the tone for the men’s basketball pre-games of PALAKASAN 2026, showcasing strength, teamwork, and determination as the tournament continues.

 

Written by Xercys Nicolle Awa
Proofread by Harris Donmoen Iligan
Photos by Ezer Neil Pasco