Mapua’s Chris Hubilla during a game against San Beda in NCAA Season 100.-NCAA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—With reigning MVP Clint Escamis held in check by San Beda’s defense, Chris Hubilla picked up the slack and led Mapua to a crucial second round win in the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball tournament.
Playing with extra motivation, Hubilla gave his former school fits and avenged the Cardinals’ first-round loss to the Red Lions. It was also their first victory over the Red Lions in four attempts dating back to last season’s finals.
“I really want to face them because facing a champion team is just different. Win or lose, you’ll learn a lot,” said Hubilla, who played for San Beda in high school, in Filipino after Mapua’s 58-55 win over San Beda at San Juan Arena on Sunday.
READ: NCAA: Chris Hubilla, Marc Cuenco push Mapua past San Beda
“We’re not content yet because we have a goal. We can be happy now but we have to be focused again in our next game.”
Hubilla flexed his muscles for a near double-double of 17 points and nine rebounds on an efficient 50 percent field goal shooting.
His performance served as an encore to his all-around effort in an 86-78 win over Letran on Friday where he collected 19 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.
READ: NCAA: Mapua rookie uses first round woes as motivation
“As the season grows, he matures,” said Escamis on Hubilla’s progression.
“He’s capable of carrying a team and if the other stars have bad shooting, he can step up and he did. I’m proud of him and hopefully, he keeps that up until we reach the Final Four,” added Escamis, who was limited to just seven points on a woeful 3-of-15 shooting from the field.
Hubilla looks to sustain his form when the Cardinals face the Arellano Chiefs on Friday.