MANILA, Philippines—San Sebastian nipped a hard-luck University of the Philippines, 81-78, in the opening seniors match of 2014 the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup at the Arena in San Juan.
The Stags regained the upperhand for good, 79-78, on a bucket by center Bradwyn Guinto, and leaned on split freebies from Ivan Camasura and CJ Perez to seal the win.
The Maroons, though, still had a chance to steal the game away but Mikee Reyes and Cris Vito misfired on their attempts in the final minute, virtually sealing their doom.
“We played our entire bench wanting to put everyone in a situation where they can learn,” said head coach Topex Robinson of his team’s win in group C.
“We have six new players and we are looking for combinations that work. We are a work in progress.”
Rhanel Yong led San Sebastian with 18 points while Perez and Guinto added 14 and 11 points, respectively. Mark Tano had six points and eight rebounds.
San Sebastian took control early and posted an early 11-point lead, 37-23, but the Maroons came back behind second unit of Henry Asilum, Diego Dario, and Mark Juruena to make it just 45-42.
UP later on got a taste of the lead, 60-56, off two free throws by Asilum and a bucket by Kyles Lao, but Stags power forward Mark Tano hit two successive medium range jumpers to tie the match.
Dave Moralde, a former San Beda Red Lion, finished with 18 points, six rebounds, three assists, and four steals while Asilum chipped in 15 markers.
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