MANILA, Philippines—Defending champion San Beda regained the top spot after holding off Arellano, 90-81, in the NCAA Season 90 men’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
Baser Amer and Art dela Cruz provided the crucial points when the Red Lions, who squandered an 18-point lead they built late in the third quarter, needed it most.
Amer sank two baskets in a row after the Chiefs closed to within three before dela Cruz sealed San Beda’s fourth win in as many games with four free throws.
“Baser and Arthur made key shots down the stretch but credit it to our defense for this win,” said Fernandez.
Amer finished with 18 points while dela Cruz had 17.
Levi Hernandez and Giovanni Jalalon led the Chiefs, who slipped to 2-1, with 20 and 17 points, respectively.
Nigerian center Ola Adeogun added 13 points for the Lions.