NCAA: Jacob Cortez powers San Beda over rival Letran anew

San Beda’s Jacob Cortez. –NCAA Photo

MANILA, Philippines—Jacob Cortez starred once more in San Beda’s rivalry win over lowly Letran, 77-68, to officially end the elimination round of the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament at San Juan Arena on Friday.

Cortez finished with 17 points, including five in the last two minutes of the game, to go along with three assists, two rebounds and a steal to match.

“It’s really nice seeing Jacob grow as the season progresses. Earlier, he was easily frustrated, he tends to force a stop but as the season goes by, he’s trying to catch spots better now. [There’s] growing pains at the start but he’s surely matured,” said coach Yuri Escueta.

“He’s really grown in front of everyone at the end of the season’s elimination.”

The win also puts the finishing touches on the Red Lions’ season at 12-6, entering the Final Four with a four-game winning streak.

Helping Cortez at the offensive end were Jomel Puno and Clifford Jopia, who finished with 15 and 11 points, respectively.

Kobe Monje ended the Knights’ abysmal 2-16 season with a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds. Deo Cuajao’s 15-point outing was also for naught.

San Sebastian wraps up season

San Sebastian’s Romel Calahat throws it up over Arellano’s Joshua Abastillas.-NCAA Photo

San Sebastian, meanwhile, capped off its season with a victory over Arellano, 98-89.

The Golden Stags closed their season at 6-12, just above the Chiefs who finished with an identical record with Letran at 2-16.

Romel Calahat put his best foot forward in the end with 24 points and 10 boards while Alex Desoyo saved his best for last with 19 points. Rafael Are and Tristan Felebrico also scored 15 each in the victory.

Jade Talampas registered a double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds but to no avail for Arellano.