Perez sparks late run as Pirates turn back Blazers

CJ Perez had another big night, triggering a late run that helped Lyceum keep its slate clean after a 77-65 rout of St. Benilde Tuesday in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at Filioil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Perez had another huge night for the Pirates, who logged their seventh straight win in as many games. The reigning MVP finished with 22 points, 12 rebounds and five assists, sparking a 13-0 run in the third quarter that erased a four-point Blazers lead and gave the Pirates a 52-43 cushion.

“There’s always going to be a challenge. There’s always going to come a time where we have to push ourselves to the limit and do our best and I’m glad my boys didn’t give up on this one,” said Lyceum coach Topex Robinson.

Mike Nzeusseu had 16 points, 13 boards and five shot blocks for the Pirates.

Earlier, San Sebastian bucked the absence of suspended RK Ilagan as it routed Mapua, 94-70, to improve to 3-4.

In the third seniors’ game, Letran clobbered Arellano U, 88-70, to clinch its fourth win in row against a loss.