SAN Juan turned to a huge first-half assault as it ran through Bulacan, 94-76, to stay unbeaten in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Anta Datu Cup on Saturday at the Valenzuela Astrodome.
Aaron Jeruta led the Knights' attack in the first half, leading the Knights' untouchable shooting as they cruised to their second win in as many games.
The Knights were so hot in the first half that the game was virtually decided after the first 20 minutes, with the boys of coach Randy Alcantara zooming to a 61-31 lead.
Facing a team boasting of grizzled PBA vets and promising young stars, the Kuyas never had a chance.
Jeruta shone the brightest for the Knights' balanced attack as he finished with 18 points on a perfect 4-4 shooting from downtown.
CJ Isit added 12 while Mike Ayonayon chipped in 11, proving that the Knights are certainly more than their ex-pros.
Their veterans still had a hand in the win as John Wilson and Mac Cardona added 10 points apiece both in limited minutes.
Jason Melano was one of the few bright spots for the Kuyas as he finished with 21 points off the bench.
JR Taganas had a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds as James Martinez also finished with 12. The loss dropped the Kuyas to an even 1-1.
The scores:
SAN JUAN 94 – Jeruta 18, Isit 12, Ayonayon 11, Wilson 10, Cardona 10, Clarito 9, Gabawan 8, Reyes 6, De Leon 4, Parala 2, Rodriguez 2, Marquez 2, Rios 0, Hubalde 0, Cortes 0
BULACAN 76 - Melano 21, Taganas 12, Martinez 12, Siruma 9, Thiele 6, Dela Cruz 4, Napoles 3, Wong 3, Escosio 2, Babilonia 2, Villanueva 2, Gonzales 0
Quarters: 32-16, 61-31, 80-58, 94-76