LETRAN will be entering the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball quarterfinals with much-needed momentum after ending the elimination round with a statement win over archrival San Beda, 87-83, at Playtime Filoil Centre on Sunday.
The Knights ended the elims with back-to-back wins over Emilio Aguinaldo College and now, the Red Lions, to register an 8-5 record in Group B.
“Nag-start ‘to sa practice, having that clarity on offense and defense kasi for the past games, ang erratic namin on both ends, so we studied film,” coach Allen Ricardo.
“Nakita ko naman and I’m happy about the win and how they performed in this game.”
Titing Manalili came up big for Letran with a double-double to the tune of 26 points and 11 assists with four rebounds and two steals to go with it. Kevin Santos also dominated inside with 14 points and six rebounds.
Technically no bearing for San Beda
The loss barely affected San Beda, though, as it stayed atop Group B with a 9-4 card, sufficient for the top seed with a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarters.
The Knights spoiled Janti Miller’s big game, beating their fierce foe despite his 34-point explosion.
Miller played for 30 minutes and registered a 50 percent field goal shooting clip, sinking 12 of his 24 tries, but to no avail. Jimmy Reyes also scored in a losing effort for the Red Lions.
San Beda now awaits the winner of the play-in for fourth game between Lyceum and San Sebastian.
On the other hand, the Knights will have a twice-to-win disadvantage when they take on Group A’s second seed Arellano. They will play with their season on the line this Wednesday at the same venue.
The Scores:
LETRAN 87 - Manalili 26, Santos 14, Cuajao 10, Roque 10, Estrada 9, Omega 8, Gammad 5, Buensalida 2, Alejandro 2, Tapenio 1, Silorio 0, Montecillo 0
SAN BEDA 83 - Miller 34, Reyes 12, Andrada 8, Gonzales 6, Estacio 6, Calimag 5, Culdora 4, Bonzalida 3, Celzo 2,Lina 2, Etulle 1, Songcuya 0
Quarters: 26-21, 46-49, 70-70, 87-83
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