Red Lions, Lady Bulldogs nail Fr. Martin plums

MANILA, Philippines — The defending champion San Beda Red Lions pulled off a “three-peat” in the men’s division while the National University Lady Bulldogs claimed their first ever women’s crown in the 8th Fr. Martin Collegiate Open Cup basketball finals last Saturday.

Jake Pascual banged in a game-high 20 points while Julius Armon, Romeo de la Rosa and Ola Adeogun combined for 45 as the Red Lions breezed past the Arellano University Chiefs, 89-66, in the winner-take-all men’s finals at the Trinity University of Asia gymnasium in Quezon City.

The Lady Bulldogs squandered a 14-point lead but banked on a triple by Ma. Teresa Pama to secure a 72-67 triumph over the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers.

Kristine Tolentino topped the Paul Du-coached Lady Bulldogs with 19 points, while Eden Alla delivered 14 as NU clinched its first women’s title.

Pama pushed the Lady Bulldogs beyond reach in the final minute with a triple and Alla sank a free throw to seal the win.