NCAA: Mapua stays alive in Final 4 race, frustrates San Sebastian

MANILA, Philippines–Noah Lugo delivered 22 points, including a momentum-shifting three during the crucial moments, as Mapua secured a 90-73 win over San Sebastian on pure hustle and grit Thursday in the NCAA Season 95 men’s basketball tournament.

The Cardinals notched their eighth win in 16 games to stay alive for a semifinal appearance to the disappointment of the Stags, who visibly lacked the firepower without dynamic forward Alvin Capobres in the rotation.

Allyn Bulanadi came out firing with 18 points but was hounded by the Cardinals throughout the second half, forcing San Sebastian coach Egay Macaraya to raise the white flag in the closing minutes as they dropped to 9-6.

The Stags can still elude all possible complications once they sweep their remaining assignments opposite the Arellano Chiefs and the Perpetual Altas.

The Cardinals are also hard-pressed to close out the second round with victories over the Altas and the Blazers to remain in the hunt for a semis spot.

MAPUA 90—Lugo 22, Victoria 18, Gonzales 15, Bunag 9, Gamboa 8, Garcia 6, Bonifacio 4, Salenga 2, Nieles 2, Serrano 2, Nocum 2, Aguirre 0, Dela Cruz 0.

SSC 73—Ilagan 19, Bulanadi 18, Calahat 10, Villapando 9, Calma 4, Sumoda 4, Altamirano 3, Desoyo 2, Loristo 2, Suico 2, Tero 0, Isidro 0.

Quarters: 23-15, 46-39, 68-60, 90-73