San Beda’s Jomel Puno soars over the San Sebastian defense for a bucket. –NCAA Photo
MANILA, Philippines—San Beda made easy work of San Sebastian, 76-53, in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament at San Juan Arena on Friday.
The Red Lions continued to climb up the ladder behind league leader Mapua (7-1) with a 6-2 record, thanks in large part to coach Yuri Escueta’s trust in all of his wards.
“We were able to make stops and we trusted and believed in one another. We got trust in the system and in each other,” said Escueta.
“Here, if you’re open, shoot it. We trust that you’ll make the right decision. If not and somebody’s more open, be ready to shoot and pay back the trust given to you. We were able to get guys open when they went zone.”
The coach’s system worked wonders for the Red Lions, who had 16 team assists while giving opportunities to role players, tallying 31 bench points in the process.
Jomel Puno notched a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds en route to the win. Yukien Andrada and Jacob Cortez, meanwhile, also had 16 and 10 markers in the victory.
Reggz Gabat (11) and Alex Desoyo (10) combined for 21 points but to no avail as the Golden stags crashed to a 3-6 card.
EAC STUNS BENILDE
Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Nikole Quinal (left) and King Gurtiza (right) celebrate during their game against College of St. Benilde. –NCAA Photo
College of St. Benilde’s three-game winning streak reached a screeching half after a 78-76 loss to Emilio Aguinaldo College.
JP Maguliano’s double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds pushed the Generals to a 5-3 card. Ralph Robin and Nat Cosejo also scored 16 and 12, respectively, in the win.
Robi Nayve scored a game-high 23 markers and eight assists for the Blazers but it was all for naught. Miggy Corteza scattered 15 points while reigning league MVP Will Gozum finished with 14 markers and five boards.
The Taft-based squad, which fell to 4-4 in the standings, will end the first round on Sunday in a Season 98 Finals rematch against Letran.