Photo: Scottie Thompson. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Scottie Thompson took over in the crucial stretch to tow University of Perpetual Help past a gritty Lyceum side, 70-61, in the NCAA Season 91 men’s basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
The reigning MVP scored eight of the Altas’ 10 points in a key span in the fourth quarter that put his team ahead for good to hold off the Pirates, who made their debut under new head coach Topex Robinson.
Thompson hit a triple, converted on a three-point play and made two free throws that put the Altas in front, 64-57, with 1:46 left.
“I had a slow start because I got into foul trouble but in the end I just tried to take charge,” said the graduating Thompson in Filipino.
“I’m happy with how my players played. Even though they were down, they showed heart,” said Perpetual Help head coach Aric del Rosario in Filipino.
With Perpetual Help in need on the offensive end in the fourth quarter, Thompson along with Nigerian import Bright Akhuetie and forward Gab Dagangon stepped up.
Thompson had 12 points, 10 rebounds and three assists, Akhuetie scored nine points and grabbed 11 rebounds while Dagangon finished with 12 points and nine rebounds.
The Altas’ other import Prince Eze led all scorers with 21 points that went with 10 rebounds and three blocks but it was Thompson who took over when it mattered.
Shaq Alanes paced the Pirates with 13 points on 4-of-7 shooting from behind-the-arc. Lyceum had a chance to win the game despite being dominated at the rebounding department, 59-39. CFC
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