Letran stays alive, forges rubber match against San Sebastian

MANILA, Philippines — Letran proved that its second round stunner over San Sebastian was no fluke.

The Knights, calm and collected under the pressure-packed situation, forged a winner take all match for the last finals berth after repulsing the Stags, 70-62, Monday in the 87th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan.

“[We’re] still alive but it’s only one game,” said Letran coach Louie Alas. “For us to be in the finals we have to beat them again.”

The Knights broke loose from a 46 deadlock courtesy of an 11-2 blast and led by as much as 12, 65-53, on a Mark Cruz jumper with 4:05 left.

San Sebastian, powered by Calvin Abueva, tried to comeback but Letran held its ground.

“We played relaxed basketball and it’s all about team defense,” added Alas.

Letran, which shocked San Sebastian 82-81 in overtime in their second round encounter, shot 45% from the field and stifled the Stags to an abysmal 26% shooting clip.

Both teams will dispute the last semifinals slot on Wednesday at 4pm. San Beda turned back Jose Rizal U, 83-74, to earn the first ticket to the championship.

Jam Cortes had 16 points and nine rebounds while Kevin Alas collected 15 points, five rebounds, five assists, two steals and a couple of blocks for Letran.

Abueva, despite being hobbled by foul trouble, came through with 19 points and 16 rebounds.