ENCHO Serrano took over late for La Salle as it steamrolled past Letran, 80-69, to clinch a spot in the semifinals of the 2019 Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup on Monday.
The 6-foot sophomore played a crucial part in the homestretch for the Green Archers, stringing eight straight points that made it a 76-60 with 2:24 remaining.
Serrano finished with 18 points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals as La Salle booked a Final Four date against Lyceum on Thursday.
Andrei Caracut's triple at the 4:50 mark triggered that 11-2 blast to help the Green Archers run away from the pesky Letran late.
That would be a part of his 15-point performance on a 3-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, to go with four boards and two dimes.
Justine Baltazar also did his damage inside to wound up with 11 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four blocks in the win.
"At first, we were playing too relaxed, so we told them we need to make stops and we will be able to run. Ayun, naka-convert kami nung dulo," said coach Gian Nazario as his side played catch-up in the first half before seizing the lead in the final two frames.
Allen Mina led the Knights with 19 points and three rebounds, while Jeo Ambohot registered a double-double with his 13 points, 10 boards, and three assists in the defeat. with reports from Andrew Mencias
The Scores:
LA SALLE 80 -- Serrano 18, Caracut 15, Baltazar 11, Melecio 9, Manuel 7, Capacio 4, Bonggay 4, Bates 2, Cagulangan 2, David 2, Bartlett 2, Lojera 2, Lim 2, Cu 0, Escandor 0.
LETRAN 69 -- Mina 19, Ambohot 13, Reyson 10, Ular 9, Muyang 6, Pambid 5, Yu 3, Olivario 2, Balagasay 2, Caralipio 0, Sangalang 0, Guarino 0.
Quarters: 14-20, 35-37, 54-50, 80-69.
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