King Gurtiza continued to prove his leadership for the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals as he spearheaded the team’s midseason resurgence in NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball. His timely performances in October 2024 kept EAC in the race for a long-awaited Final Four appearance.
Key Wins Boost EAC’s Season
EAC regained momentum with two critical victories in October. The Generals beat San Sebastian College-Recoletos 97–86 on October 8, 2024, as Gurtiza fired a career-high 27 points along with five rebounds and four assists. A week later, he followed up with 21 points to lead EAC in a remarkable 78–70 comeback win against the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, overturning a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter.
These back-to-back wins improved EAC’s record to 5–5, bringing them level with Lyceum of the Philippines University in the tight Final Four chase.
Named NCAA Player of the Week
Following those breakout performances, the Collegiate Press Corps recognized Gurtiza as the NCAA Player of the Week for October 8–13. He averaged 17.5 points, 4 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals across two games—outperforming contenders such as San Beda’s Yukien Andrada and Lyceum’s Renz Villegas.
The acknowledgment highlighted his consistency and growing reputation as the Generals’ anchor on both offense and defense.
Leading a Comeback Against Perpetual Help
In the October 11 matchup versus Perpetual Help, EAC appeared on the brink of defeat before Gurtiza rallied the team. He logged 21 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals to complete the turnaround.
“Our coach reminded us that every game in the second round is critical,” Gurtiza said postgame. “He trusted me to take charge, and I just wanted to repay that trust by performing when it mattered.”
The Generals’ Resilient Mindset
What made EAC’s run remarkable wasn’t just the wins—it was the team’s attitude. Despite early shooting struggles, the Generals refused to give in, feeding off their captain’s confidence.
“Even when we were trailing, the belief never faded,” said Gurtiza. “We stayed focused, fought for every possession, and trusted one another.”
Under Coach Jerson Cabiltes, EAC has developed a culture built on composure and collective effort—qualities that were evident throughout their bounce-back stretch.
Closing a Memorable College Chapter
n his final year with EAC, Gurtiza capped off his college career as team captain—a leadership role that symbolized his transformation from promising rookie to one of the league’s most respected guards. The Generals finished NCAA Season 100 with a 9–9 record, falling just one win short of ending their 15-year Final Four drought.
Now, with his sights set on the PBA Season 50 Draft, Gurtiza leaves behind a lasting impact on the EAC basketball program—defined by resilience, accountability, and relentless belief.
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