Coming into the Kanto Classic tournament with a perfect 8–0 season record, The Titans (SMIS) entered the weekend as one of the teams to beat. Over two intense days of competition, St. Mary’s showcased resilience, and consistency, finishing the tournament with a 4-2 record and a narrow loss in the finals.
Day 1 began in dominantion for the titans, as they beat SJA in a 51–23 victory. From the opening minutes St. Mary’s controlled the tempo applying constant defensive pressure. Later that day, SMIS faced a tougher challenge against Kadena. Despite a strong effort, the ttians struggled to match Kadena’s physicality and fell 37–26. The loss marked St.Mary’s first setback of the tournament. Day 1 concluded with SMIS holding a 1–1 record, still able to win kanto
The titans responded effectivlly on Day 2 opening the morning with a strong 53–16 win over Korean School. The game was Later in the day, St. Mary’s was tested once again in a tightly contested matchup against Zama. The game remained close throughout, but St. Mary’s stayed composed in the final minutes, securing a crucial 53–47 win. The victory closed Day 2 on a high note and guaranteed SMIS a spot in the semi-finals.
Before the finals,the continued their strong play by defeating Yokota 54–36, earning another convincing win . With confidence high SMIS advanced to the finals for a rematch against Kadena. The championship game showed to be the most intense contest of the tournament. SMIS battled Kadena possession by possession, keeping the score close until the final moments. In a heartbreaking finish where St. Mary’s lost by a near 2 points 38–36, ending their title hopes by just two points.
