NCAA Final Four set as Mapua snatches 3rd seed, clips JRU

Mapua Cardinals. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

CJ Isit played the game of his life and lead Mapua to an 81-76 triumph over Jose Rizal U to snare third place in the NCAA Season 91 men’s basketball tournament Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.

The Fil-Canadian Isit powered the Cardinals with 27 points on a 12-of-19 shooting, to go with two rebounds, two assists, and five steals, which marked his best game to date after fighting through a dislocated right elbow that forced him out of action for five weeks.

“I think our team responded well. We came out with intensity and took care of the defensive end. We always know we have the firepower so anyone could go off any given day,” said Isit.

Darell Menina chipped in 16 markers while MVP candidate Allwell Oraeme got 11 points and 24 rebounds.

Mapua drew a Final Four date with Letran, but will be playing with a twice-to-win disadvantage.

JRU, meanwhile, will square off with no.1 seed San Beda in the semifinals as the Final Four starts on Tuesday at the same venue.

Tey Teodoro led the Heavy Bombers with 16 points on a paltry 6-of-21 shooting even as Marco Balagtas got 11 in the losing effort.