Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Defending champion San Beda clamped down on defense in the second half to beat Arellano University, 59-46, in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball tournament Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Donald Tankoua posted a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds while James Canlas and Evan Nelle combined for 19 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists for the Red Lions, who are gunning for a fourth straight title.
“Our mantra is really defense first rather than offense. defense wins us championships so hopefully we continue to play defense every game and achieve our goal in defending our crown,” said San Beda coach Boyet Fernandez.
The Lions’ defense was tested in the first half by the returning Kent Salado, who was a one-man show for the Chiefs.
San Beda responded in the last two quarters where it held the guard to just five points after scoring 13 in the first half.