NCAA: Top team Mapua posts sixth straight win

Clint Escamis tries to get past the Perpetual Help.-NCAA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—League-leading Mapua kept its hot streak going after nipping Perpetual Help, 62-61, in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday at San Juan Arena.

The Cardinals ended the first round of eliminations with an 8-1 record and a six-game run.

Clint Escamis sustained his torrid play with 10 points and 11 rebounds while Marc Cuenco and JC Recto added 13 and 12 points, respectively for the Cardinals.

John Abis and Christian Pagaran had 15 points each for the Altas, who dropped to 3-6.

Jose Rizal University’s Marwin Dionisio.-NCAA PHOTO

Jose Rizal University also continued its winning ways, making easy work of Arellano, 88-72.

Marwin Dionisio showed up on both ends of the court with 21 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks for the Heavy Bombers, who were coming off an 88-87 double overtime victory over Lyceum four days ago.

Agem Miranda and Shawn Argente also shone for JRU, which climbed to 6-3, with 15 points apiece.

Danielle Mallari and Jade Talampas combined for 29 points and 14 rebounds for the Chiefs, who fell to a 1-8 card.

The first round ends on Sunday with Emilio Aguinaldo College taking on San Beda and defending champion Letran clashing with College of St. Benilde in a rematch of last season’s finals.

The second round, meanwhile, begins on Tuesday.