The MLV-Zamboanga Valientes closed their campaign in the 35th Dubai International Basketball Invitational with a shock 83-72 victory over defending champions Sports Club – Beirut at the Al Nasr Gym yesterday.

Although the result had no bearing on their own tournament standing, the Valientes played spoiler and dealt the Lebanese side a damaging loss that affected its positioning for the next round.

After losing their first three games, the Philippine squad finally found its rhythm behind the combined efforts of Terrence Romeo, 7-foot-5 import Sam Deguara, and Greg Slaughter, who anchored both ends of the floor.

Beirut momentarily seized control in the second quarter with an 8-0 run to take a 40-33 lead, but Zamboanga answered with a rally led by Slaughter, Romeo and Barkley Ebona to grab a 41-40 advantage before halftime.

The Valientes took full control in the third period, building a 12-point lead — their biggest of the tournament — and maintained the cushion the rest of the way.

Zamboanga’s dominance on the boards proved decisive, as it outrebounded Beirut, 56-29. Deguara led the Valientes with 21 points and 17 boards.

Romeo also made his presence felt offensively with 20, and former NBA player Anthony Bennett tallied 12 points for Zamboanga.

Team owner Junnie Navarro said the Valientes plan to return to the Dubai tournament next year with improved preparation.

“I feel sad that our conditioning and jelling showed up late. But I am happy to finally feel how it is to win here in Dubai. Quien pensa! Arriba Zamboanga!”

Captain Albert James English top-scored for Beirut with 19 points, while LA Traviyon Jackson contributed 14 markers.