Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 3) – San Beda University Red Lions asserted its mastery over Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, 67-53, to stay undefeated in NCAA Season 97 on Sunday at the La Salle Greenhills Gym.
The Red Lions bucked their slow performance in the first three quarters after unleashing their offensive dominance in executing good baskets and fortifying their defense against a suddenly struggling Heavy Bombers camp.
San Beda widened their advantage to double digits, 61-50, with over three minutes left in the contest after guard Ralph Penuela received a catch-and-shoot inside dish from big man Damie Cuntapay.
The Mendiola-based Red Lions side held their opponents to just nine points in the payoff period, triggered by their tight press on the court.
“I told my big guys that I will go to you in the second half and hopefully, you can execute it. I’m happy they came out in the fourth quarter,” San Beda head coach Boyet Fernandez lauded his bigs Cuntapay and JB Bahio who were instrumental in the Red Lions’ successful plays in the final canto.
James Kwekuteye helped San Beda defy the odds with his game-high 17 points and nine rebounds while Penuela notched 11 markers to maintain their clean slate after three games.
Marwin Dionisio was the lone bright spot for JRU with 10 points and eight rebounds as the Kalentong-based team is still winless after three outings.
San Beda seeks to extend their winning streak to four against San Sebastian on Friday at 3 p.m., while JRU will shoot for their first win of the season against fellow winless squad Lyceum on Wednesday noon.
The Scores:
SAN BEDA 67 – Kwekuteye 17, Penuela 11, Bahio 8, Cuntapay 8, Ynot 8, Amsali 5, Alfaro 4, Andrada 4, Abuda 2, Cometa 0, Gallego 0
JOSE RIZAL 53 – Dionisio 10, Delos Santos 9, Gonzales 8, Bongay 7, Celis 6, Macatangay 4, Agbong 3, Jungco 2, Arenal 2, Gonzales 2, Aguilar 0, Aguado 0, Guiab 0
Quarterscores: 13-16, 32-27, 47-44, 67-53
