Pirates start post-CJ era with big win

The post-CJ Perez era of the Lyceum of the Philippines University began in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup, with the Pirates showing that they can take care of business after a 70-57 win over College of St. Benilde on Monday.

The Pirates needed to grind it out for three quarters before wresting control and join opening day winners La Salle and San Beda.

The Green Archers made short work of University of Santo Tomas and former coach Aldin Ayo, 72-49, while the Red Lions, the reigning three-time NCAA champions, turned back shorthanded University of the Philippines, 75-66, on Sunday afternoon.

“I think without CJ (Perez), it forces us to really pass the ball around and to have more people step up,” said Lyceum coach Topex Robinson.

Perez made the jump to the PBA last year, tabbed as the first overall pick in the Draft by Columbian Dyip.

JC Marcelino led Lyceum with 15 points while Mike Nzeusseu finished 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Robi Nayve and Jeremiah Pangalangan each scored 12 points for St. Benilde.

The 6-foot-10 Pangalangan, who transferred to CSB from La Salle, showed a lot of promise as a reliable man in the paint for the Blazers, who played without four regulars.

In other matches, the San Beda Red Cubs defeated defending NCAA Juniors champion Mapua, 86-68, in high school play.

Veterans Justine Sanchez (19 points), Jay Ynot (17 points), and Rhayyan Amsali (16 points) led the way for San Beda.

In other juniors action, Far Eastern University turned back tough La Salle Green Hills, 83-76.

In 11-Under play, Don Bosco turned back San Sebastian, 59-49, while Colegio de San Benildo crushed San Beda, 57-37.