Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 29) — The College of St. Benilde Blazers are back in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball finals after escaping the San Beda Red Lions, 62-61, in their Final Four meeting Tuesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Migz Oczon showed the way for Benilde with 17 points and six rebounds. He knocked down two crucial free throws with 12.7 seconds remaining in the final quarter to give the Blazers a three-point edge.
The Red Lions had a couple of opportunities to force overtime but James Kwekuteye missed two attempts from beyond the arc and instead settled for a tip-in by Damie Cuntapay as the Mendiola-based squad concluded its Season 98 campaign.
James Pasturan added 16 points and four rebounds, while presumptive Most Valuable Player Will Gozum had a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds.
Jacob Cortez paced San Beda with 13 points, two rebounds, and two assists.
Benilde will wait for the winner of the semifinals matchup between Letran Knights and Lyceum Pirates.
