Letran back on top after holding off San Beda
Kevin Racal of Letran goes for a layup off Art DEla Cruz of San Beda ,at the MOA arena . AUGUST DELA CRUZ/INQUIRER
MANILA, Philippines – Letran squandered its huge lead before fighting off defending champion San Beda, 74-67, in the NCAA Season 89 Saturday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Raymond Almazan led a balanced effort for the Knights, who reclaimed solo first place with an 8-1 record, with 22 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks.
Article continues after this advertisement“Test of character for the team, they really wanted to prove something,” said Letran coach Caloy Garcia.
Rookie Ford Ruaya gave Letran a lift with a career-best 15 points, including five crucial points down the stretch.
The Knights led by as much as 18, 27-9, late in the first quarter before the Red Lions, who drew 27 points and 15 rebounds from Ola Adeogun, came back and even take a one-point edge, 54-53, at the 2:06 mark of the third period.
