NCAA: Tano relishes starting role to lead Stags past Chiefs

MANILA, Philippines — With starting center Brad Guinto out, San Sebastian head coach Topex Robinson knew it opened a good chance for backup big man Mark Tano.

Tano didn’t disappoint as he relished a rare opportunity to start as he helped the Stags get back into the top four with a 54-49 win over the Arellano Chiefs in the NCAA Season 89 men’s basketball tournament Monday at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

“He (Tano) stepped up,” said Robinson. “It was an opportunity for him tonight.”

The six-foot-six Tano responded with 11 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks for San Sebastian, which moved in fourth place with a 6-5 record after Jose Rizal University lost to San Beda earlier.

“Sobrang low scoring ball game. But again, I was all over them at the start but I told the guys in the second half we need defense,” added Robinson.

Both teams had to bleed for points down the stretch but the Stags had Tano to will them through. Tano had five points in the final frame, including two key baskets, with the last one — a hook shot — that extended their lead to four, 50-46, with only 47.5 ticks left.

“Wala nga si Bradwyn so kailangan ko mag-step up.  Kailangan talaga naming manalo,” said Tano.

Jamil Ortuoste also had 11 points to go along with five rebounds and four assists. Guinto missed the game due to fever.

Prince Caperal notched a double-double with 15 points and 16 rebounds but it wasn’t enough as the Chiefs succumbed to their eighth loss in 11 games.