Alex Almario (10), pba-online.net file photo
MANILA, Philippines — Solid on both ends, Jose Rizal University stunned debuting San Sebastian, 79-65, Monday in the 2012 FilOil Flying V Preseason Hanes Cup at the San Juan Arena.
Starting point guard Alex Almario led a balanced attack by the Heavy Bombers, who hiked their record to 3-1.
Almario fired 22 points, including a top of the key jumper that sealed the game.
“My players came in ready to play. I know you worked hard for it but we can’t be contended,” said JRU head coach Vergel Meneses.
The Stags pulled to within two, 45-47, on a 10-0 run but the Bombers kept their poise and battled back to put their lead back to double-digits.
Nate Matute also gave JRU a lift with 12 of his 15 points came from the three-point area.
San Sebastian came from a training in the States and played just its first game of the tournament.
Ian Sangalang paced the Stags with 18 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks while Calvin Abueva had a hard-earned 16 points but committed five errors.