Pirates top Heavy Bombers for 3rd place

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Lyceum of the Philippines University ended its campaign in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup on a high note after it upended Jose Rizal University, 82-75, for third place Sunday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The Pirates were firmly in control of the match never conceding a lead since the opening tip and the Heavy Bombers were forced to play on their heels against Lyceum’s constant attack.

And even though the Pirates played for the third-best spot in the tournament, head coach Topex Robinson wanted his team to play as if it was their last game.

“We’re not looking at this game as a third or fourth place game, I told them this is part of the season and I told them to not fall into the trap that this is just a game for the third place,” said Robinson.

The Pirates pressed on early against the Heavy Bombers’ offense to come away with nine steals and that constant pressure led to eight turnover points for Lyceum.

CJ Perez led the charge for the Pirates with 14 points, seven rebounds, and three steals while Harry Nzeusseu had 12 points and 14 boards.

Ervin Grospe had a game-high 17 points to lead JRU.