NCAA: St. Benilde bags first win, turns back Lyceum

St. Benilde vs Lyceum in the U in the NCAA Season 97 men’s basketball. NCAA/GMA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–St. Benilde finally netted its first win of the tournament after turning back Lyceum, 79-68, Tuesday in the NCAA Season 97 men’s basketball at La Salle Greenhills Gym.

Robi Nayve and AJ Benson helped the Blazers break free from a tight first half as they redeemed themselves after suffering a sting 64-61 defeat at the hands of the defending champion Letran Knights in the opener.

The Pirates suffered their second straight defeat which put their campaign in peril in this short, single-round tournament that was trimmed down to suit the pandemic restrictions.

St. Benilde kept Lyceum at bay most the second half with its trapping defense. But Vincent Cunanan tried to give the Pirates a break, connecting on a fast break layup for 65-72 with two minutes left.

But Will Gozum nipped it in the bud with two free throws in the next play before Nayve put everything away for the Blazers with a three pointer.

Nayve wound up with 17 points, while Gozum and Benson chipped in 15 and 11, respectively.