MANILA, Philippines–San Beda utilized its manpower advantage to the hilt to turn back an adamant yet budding Jose Rizal side, 65-47, in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball tournament on a rainy Thursday afternoon at the Filoil Arena in San Juan.
With four of their starters in contention for the Most Valuable Player plum, the defending champion Red Lions simply relied on Calvin Oftana and Donald Tankoua down low and the efficient backcourt duo of James Canlas and Evan Nelle to stay unbeaten for 12 games.
Athletic forward Agem Miranda created headaches for the Lions early on as the Heavy Bombers seized control in the first half.
But when Oftana and Tankoua muscled their way inside on both ends, it practically exploited the youth and inexperience of the Heavy Bombers that led to JRU’s eighth defeat in 12 games.
Canlas extinguished the Heavy Bombers’ hope for an upset with numerous fast-break plays while Evan Nelle swished the net on several occasions, including a long three that had them smelling victory for good.
SAN BEDA 65—Canlas 18, Oftana 12, Nelle 11, Tankoua 10, Doliguez 8, Abuda 2, Bahio 2, Alfaro 2, Carino 0, Cuntapay 0, Etrata 0, Soberano 0.
JRU 47—Miranda 14, Amores 11, Delos Santos 5, Vasquez 5, Aguilar 4, Dionisio 4, Dela Rosa 3, Jungco 1, Arenal 0, Macatangay 0.
Quarters: 21-15, 27-31, 47-43, 65-47.