Stags disrupt NCAA Final Four picture with upset of Red Lions

Bradwyn Guinto vs Pierre Tankoua. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Also-ran San Sebastian foiled defending champion San Beda’s bid to stay on top with a 98-92 upset win in the NCAA Season 91 men’s basketball tournament Tuesday at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Bradwyn Guinto flirted with a double-double with 26points and nine rebounds with four assists and a block to boot for the Stags, who improved to 5-10.

“I just told my players to enjoy our last remaining games and let this season be a lesson for us,” said Stags head coach Rodney Santos.

READ: Santos still loves being a coach despite dismal rookie season

“We just played with heart and with more intensity,” Guinto told reporters. “This is my first time ever to win against San Beda.”

The Stags’ victory created a three-way tie in first place between San Beda, Letran and Perpetual Help followed by Mapua and Arellano with 10-5 slates and Jose Rizal University next at 9-6.

San Sebastian overcame a triple-double performance by Art dela Cruz, who posted game-highs of 30 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists for his second triple-double of the season.

The game also marked the first time the Stags won over the Lions since beating them in 2012 in the second round of eliminations.

Forward Michael Calisaan added 21 points and nine rebounds for San Sebastian, which snapped a five-game losing skid against San Beda.