Patrick Montaño shoots Lyceum to a playoff spot after defeating San Sebastian.-NCAA Photo
MANILA, Philippines—Just a day after Mapua clinched the first Final Four ticket in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament, another squad secured a playoff spot in Lyceum.
The Pirates officially locked in a Final Four spot with a 12-4 record after their close win against San Sebastian, 83-80, at San Juan Arena on Friday.
Patrick Montaño came alive in a timely manner for coach Gilbert Malabanan with 22 points while Enoch Valdez continued to impress with 18 points, eight rebounds and seven assists to go along with three blocks and two steals.
Golden Stag Alex Desoyo matched Montaño’s 22 points but to no avail as they continued to slide down the ladder with a 5-11 card.
Mapua wins five straight
Mapua Cardinals. –NCAA PHOTO
Erstwhile mentioned Mapua kept up its hot streak after defeating lowly Arellano, 84-75.
The league leaders won their fifth straight victory while keeping a firm grasp on the top spot at 14-3.
Marc Cuenco paced the Cardinals with 17 points, four boards and four dimes while leading MVP candidate Clint Escamis balled out for 15 points, six rebounds and four dimes.
“My role is to fill the gap for this team, like shooting, extra passes,” said Cuenco.
Lorenz Capulong’s double-double efforts of 22 points and 12 boards were wasted as the Chiefs skidded down to a 2-15 card. Jade Talampas, meanwhile, sank four triples en route to a 14-points outing but to no avail.