Red Lions manager: ‘Refs made sure the NCAA sees a new champion’
A dejected San Beda side after losing its title retention bid. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
San Beda team manager Jude Roque took to Twitter his frustrations after the Red Lions saw their five-year reign in the NCAA men’s basketball snapped on Thursday.
Roque posted a cryptic tweet referring to the officiating shortly after the Knights beat the Red Lions 85-82 in game 3 for the crown.
Article continues after this advertisementREAD: Graduating Knights get best send-off as they end college career with title
“Refs made sure the NCAA sees a new champion,” Roque said.
One of the deciding calls in overtime was the double lane violation with 6.7 seconds left with Letran in the lead 84-82.
Article continues after this advertisementREAD: ‘I had to humble myself for the Knights,’ says champion coach Ayo
After Knights center Jomari Sollano sunk his first freethrow, his teammate McJour Luib nonchalantly walked to the center of the lane and Red Lions forward Art De La Cruz followed.
Referees saw the action and blew their whistles as Luib flashed a wily smile as he knew the possession arrow would favor the Knights.
READ: No regrets for De La Cruz despite heartbreaking end to NCAA journey
Under Fiba rules, it was a legitimate call.
Everyone clad in dark blue loved the call but the rest of the crowd dressed in red had mixed emotions of sadness, anger, and downright shock.
For the complete collegiate sports coverage including scores, schedules and stories, visit Inquirer Varsity.
