NCAA: Arellano big man Capulong surprised by 30-point outing

Arellano’s JL Capulong at the free throw line during a game against Lyceum in NCAA Season 100.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—JL Capulong was a man among boys as he did the heavy lifting in powering Arellano past Lyceum on Saturday in the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball tournament.

Behind Capulong’s best game, the Chiefs overcame the Pirates, 91-86, for a much-needed win amid a very challenging season.

“We’re at the bottom of the standings so we needed to win one game at a time and keep working,” said Capulong, whose effort allowed Arellno to notch its fourth win in 12 games, in Filipino.

READ: NCAA: Arellano clips Lyceum behind JL Capulong’s career game

“I just worked on my game and my coaches just gave me confidence.”

Capulong muscled his way to a career-high 30 points that went with 16 rebounds as Lyceum just didn’t have the size to match up against the hefty 6-foot-6 center.

The 23-year-old Capulong said his offensive contributions surprised him although his coach Chico Manabat had always believed in what he was capable of doing.

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“Coach has been telling me that I can excel in the paint, especially with my size, so I just took advantage of my strength.”

“This is such a big boost for me because I didn’t expect to score 30 points.”

Capulong hopes to do the same in the Chiefs’ next game on Tuesday when they face the streaky Perpetual Help Altas.