The Letran Knights turned back a tough challenge from the National University Bulldogs to pull out a 76-69 win and stay undefeated in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup.
Jap Pambid hit a broken play triple to beat the shotclock heading into the final four minutes to give the Knights a 70-63 lead, which Letran protected ferociously to win for the third straight game.
Tommy Olivario was also big at the clutch as his triple with 38 seconds left finally put the Bulldogs away.
“I am very happy with the way the boys responded,” said first year Letran coach Bonnie Tan after the win as his charges continued to set the pace in Group B play.
Veteran swingman Jerrick Balanza sat it out because of a mild knee injury suffered during their last game, which was a win against Far Eastern.