NCAA: Stags escape Pirates

MANILA, Philippines — San Sebastian averted a meltdown and escaped Lyceum, 58-53, Thursday in the NCAA season 89 men’s basketball tournament at the Arena in San Juan.

Rookie CJ Perez blistered for a career-high 28 points along with 11 rebounds to lead the Stags in solidifying their hold of the fourth place with an 8-5 card.

San Sebastian saw its 10-point lead midway the payoff period, 53-43, slashed down to two points after Lyceum went on a 10-2 lead with only 25 seconds left.

Paulino Rebollos, who added five markers, split his freethrows in the ensuing possession, but it was good to lift the Stags to victory.

Dexter Zamora had 12 points for the Pirates, who dropped to 4-9, while Shane Ko and Aziz Mbomiko added 11 and 10 points, respectively.