NCAA: St. Benilde turns back Mapua for 3-0 start

MANILA,Philippines–College of St. Benilde shrugged off Mapua’s home court advantage and prevailed, 71-67, to keep its spotless slate intact Thursday night in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball tournament.

The Blazers leaned on Justin Gutang, who found holes in the Mapua defense with 12 points, highlighted by a three-point play in the last 36.2 seconds that proved pivotal.

From that point on, Gutang’s efforts gave the Blazers a 69-62 cushion on the way to their third straight win in a tie with the defending champion San Beda Red Lions.

It was the best start for the Blazers since 2005.

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