SAN Sebastian showed its might right away by dumping Immaculada Concepcion College, 85-64, in the opening game of the PG Flex Invitational Tournament 2025 Quintana Cup on Monday at the Paco Arena.
Axl Ross Taporco led SSC-R’s mighty assault in the second quarter, coming through with daring drives to spark the Stags’ decisive breakaway.
The 5-foot-11 Taporco led a balanced SSC-R attack with 17 points while Jew Hinoquin and Renz Robin Bernardo added 16 points. Four other players, including Josemaria Gomez De Liano – younger brother of PBA players Juan and Javi – added 6 points or more.
The opening of the preseason tournament which has the backing of Smart Sports, Crane, Topflite, Hapee, Gerry’s Grill, Spalding, Mighty Bond and Best Options, was graced by PG Flex Linoleum owner Nelson Guevarra, Manila Councilor Jefferson Lau and UCAL director Bong Nebrija.
Letran leaves it late
In the other game, Letran needed a late-game heroic from Neil Narvaez to survive the spirited challenge of Diliman College, 74-72.
With the Knights protecting a slim 69-67 lead, Narvaez made the Blue Dragons pay dearly for leaving him slightly open by draining a 3-point shot – his lone field goal for the night. He also made both his free throws.
Diliman had several chances to snatch the lead back but it misfired.
Denzil Sison-Walker showed what he’s capable of after posting 21 points, 5 boards and 1 assist in almost 28 minutes of action.
Meantime, reigning UCAL champion Olivarez College launches its bid for another title when it battles Gardner College in another 3-game schedule that will see the Knights going for their second win against ICC and Centro Escolar University taking on Manila Central University.
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