The 2018 ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Finals marked the culmination of an exhilarating season of professional basketball in Southeast Asia. This thrilling best-of-five series pitted the defending champions, the Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions, against the formidable San Miguel Alab Pilipinas from the Philippines. The stage was set for an unforgettable battle for regional supremacy.
The Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions facing off against the San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in a tense game
A Clash of Titans: Experience Meets Hunger
The Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions, seeking their second consecutive ABL title, entered the finals as seasoned veterans. Led by Coach Edu Torres, the team boasted a roster filled with experienced international players and talented local stars. Their opponent, San Miguel Alab Pilipinas, was a team fueled by passion and a burning desire to bring the championship to their home soil for the first time. Coached by Mac Cuan, Alab Pilipinas featured a dynamic mix of Filipino-American players and rising stars from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
The contrasting styles and narratives of both teams promised a captivating series. Hong Kong, known for their tactical discipline and defensive prowess, would face a formidable challenge against Alab Pilipinas’ high-octane offense and passionate fan base.
From Manila to Hong Kong: A Series of Thrills and Heartbreak
The series opened in Manila, Philippines, with a raucous home crowd cheering on Alab Pilipinas. The energy in the arena was palpable as the Filipino team drew first blood, securing a hard-fought victory in Game 1. However, the defending champions showcased their resilience in Game 2, stealing a win on the road to even the series.
The action shifted to Hong Kong for Game 3, where the Eastern Long Lions, fueled by their home crowd, took a commanding 2-1 lead in the series. Alab Pilipinas faced elimination in Game 4, and the pressure was on for the Filipino team to extend the series.
Alab Pilipinas players jumping for joy after winning a crucial game
A Historic Comeback: Alab Pilipinas’ Unforgettable Run
What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Alab Pilipinas, with their backs against the wall, delivered an inspiring performance in Game 4, forcing a decisive Game 5 back in Manila. The momentum had shifted.
The atmosphere in Manila for Game 5 was electric. The Araneta Coliseum, known as the “Philippine Basketball Mecca,” was packed to the rafters with passionate fans, all rallying behind their team. Alab Pilipinas, feeding off the energy of the crowd, dominated the game, securing a historic victory and their first-ever ABL Championship.
A Legacy of Passion and Sportsmanship: The ABL Finals’ Enduring Impact
The 2018 ABL Finals transcended the sport of basketball. It became a symbol of unity, passion, and sportsmanship across Southeast Asia. The series showcased the growing popularity and talent within the ABL, captivating audiences with its high level of competition and compelling narratives. The legacy of the 2018 ABL Finals continues to inspire the next generation of basketball players and fans in Southeast Asia and beyond.
