Stags tame Red Lions behind Abueva, Pascual

MANILA, Philippines – San Sebastian took a commanding 44-22 lead but head coach Topex Robinson knew one thing: “San Beda’s going to come back.”

The Red Lions roared back before Calvin Abueva and Ronald Pascual restored order en route to an 80-71 statement win Monday night in the NCAA Season 88 men’s basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena.

“I just told them don’t panic,” added Robinson.

San Sebastian looked rattled during the third quarter as San Beda pulled to within one, 58-59, entering the fourth period.

But thanks to Pascual’s timely shooting, the Stags created separation anew.

The flashy swingman, who is game after game returning to his lethal form, lit up from downtown with seven threes for a game-high 28 points. His last two treys helped his team pull away for good.

“I felt confident with my shot, every time I attempt I felt like it was going in,” said Pascual.

Calvin Abueva, the projected second overall pick in the coming PBA Draft this Sunday, didn’t disappoint the scouts in attendance.

Abueva finished with 21 points, 21 rebounds and nine assists to offset his nine turnovers.

“I guess it’s just a testament of what he can bring to the table,” Robinson said of his power forward.

Robinson assessed his team’s first round campaign with a lot of ups and downs but nonetheless his team sits atop the heap at 7-2.

Anjo Caram paced the Red Lions, who dropped to 6-2, with 17 points while Baser Amer added 14.