NCAA: Stags send another Final 4 hopeful reeling, stun Altas

San Sebastian Stags sends another final four hopeful reeling. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

San Sebastian played spoiler anew and continued to muddle the race to the Final Four, this time stunning Perpetual, 91-87, Tuesday in the NCAA Season 91 men’s basketball tournament at San Juan Arena.

A win for the Altas could have secured a playoff for a Final Four spot but defeat sends them into danger zone as they are only a half-a-game ahead of Arellano, Mapua, and JRU in the final four chase.

It was another big fish caught by the Golden Stags, who earlier pulled off upsets against Letran, 83-82, and San Beda, 98-92, and shook up the Final Four picture.

“I just told the guys to keep the positive attitude,” said San Sebastian coach Rodney Santos. “As much as possible, I want to end this tournament on a winning note. We try to maintain the good attitude and the positive habits.”

Jamil Ortuoste was sensational from the field with 27 points on a 10-of-15 shooting, while Bradwyn Guinto tallied another double-double with 25 markers and 11 rebounds.

Perpetual led by as much as 13, 11-5 in the first quarter before San Sebastian found its stride and kept the Altas at bay.

Gab Dagangon topped Perpetual in scoring with 22 points and seven rebounds, while Bright Akhuetie got 21 markers and 13 rebounds.

The loss also spoiled Earl Scottie Thompson’s eighth triple-double of the season of with 15 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists.

The Scores:

SAN SEBASTIAN 91 – Ortuoste 27, Guinto 25, Calisaan 15, Fabian 9, Capobres 9, Costelo 4, Bulanadi 2, Bragais 0, Santos 0, Pretta 0.
PERPETUAL 87 – Dagangon 22, Akhuetie 21, Thompson 15, Eze 13, Ylagan 10, Dizon 4, Gallardo 2, Oliveria 0, Tamayo 0, Coronel 0, Elopre 0.

Quarters: 15-22, 40-41, 63-57, 91-87.