NCAA: Lyceum escapes Perpetual on Nzeusseu’s game-winner

Perpetual guard Edgar Charcos, right, tries to score against Lyceum center Mike Nzeusseu during their game in the 95th NCAA men’s basketball tournament ‘on-tour’ Thursday at the Perpetual Help gym in Las Pinas City. NCAA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Lyceum of the Philippines held on to beat Perpetual Help, 87-85, on Mike Nzeusseu’s winning layup Thursday in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball tournament at Perpetual Gym.

Nzeusseu converted on Jayson David’s pass with 0.7 seconds left to seal the victory that stretched the Pirates’ streak to four games for a 5-1 record, good for a tie at third.

“Jayson David could have easily taken the shot and be the hero ball. But what’s special about this team is everybody is trying to have everybody to look good. You have to give credit on how this team for playing together and trusting themselves,” said head coach Topex Robinson.

Lyceum kept its composure despite the fightback from the Altas, who fed on their homecourt advantage and came back from 72-57 down to tie the game at 85 on a basket by Jeff Egan with 18.9 ticks remaining.

Nzeusseu carried the Pirates with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Reymar Caduyac chipped in 14 points, five boards, four assists, and two steals.

Jaycee Marcelino came back with 13 points, seven rebounds, and four assists after missing their game against Jose Rizal U last July 26.

Edgar Charcos registered 16 points and eight assists for Perpetual Help, which reeled to a 2-4 record, while Ben Adamos added 15 points and six boards.

The Scores

LYCEUM 87 – Nzeusseu 18, Caduyac 14, Marcelino JC 13, Marcelino JV 9, Tansingco 8, Valdez 8, David 7, Santos 5, Navarro 3, Guinto 2, Ibañez 0, Yong 0, Pretta 0, Remulla 0.
PERPETUAL HELP 85 – Charcos 16, Adamos 15, Razon 13, Egan 13, Aurin 7, Peralta 6, Barasi 4, Tamayo 3, Martel 2, Cuevas 2, Lanoy 2, Sevilla 2, Giussani 0.

Quarters: 25-16; 43-37; 74-61; 87-85.