Red Cubs draw first blood against Staglets in NCAA Juniors finals

MANILA, Philippines — San Beda pulled away in the second half en route to a 69-51 dumping of San Sebastian in game one of the 88th NCAA juniors basketball finals Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Red Cubs pulled to within a victory of a ‘four-peat,’ banking on a second half onslaught paired with stifling defense — which head coach Britt Reroma though was the key.

“In a finals series, defense will be a big factor,” said Reroma, as his San Beda held San Sebastian to just eight points in the third quarter.

Arvin Tolentino, Red Cubs’ star, led with 20 points, eight rebounds and two assists but it was Javee Mocon’s impact on both ends that stood out.

The versatile forward finished with 15 points, 17 rebounds and, two blocks — off the bench.

“Javee Mocon — he’s my game changer. He helped us in the rebounding battle, which is very important,” said Reroma.

San Beda has a chance to wrap the series up on Saturday in game two at Smart Araneta Coliseum.