By: Kim Yoshi Espiritu
Photo Courtesy: Ram Christian Campos
Colegio de San Juan de Letran bested their rivals San Beda University Red Lions, 75-68, in their final game of the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup Group Phase held last Wednesday, July 9, at the Playtime FilOil Centre.
As expected of NCAA’s leading guard, Jimboy Estrada delivered another efficient performance, scoring a game-high 24 points and four rebounds in perfect 11-of-11 shooting from within the arc.
San Beda knew what to face in this rivalry match, bracing themselves for a physical battle against the Knights aggressive offense. Mark Omega showed his intensity by releasing steam in the first quarter, committing three early fouls against the Mendiola-based squad.
Letran’s control of the first was stunted as they gave up an 11-point advantage only to reach a deadlock at halftime, 40-40.
It was in the third quarter where the Knights got their groove back, seeing flashy scores from Jun Roque and Estrada. Meanwhile, Deo Cuajao proved his sharpshooting prowess after completing a four-point play.
Jonathan Manalili exited the game in the crucial 2-minute mark of the fourth quarter as he received his 5th personal foul after reaching Gonzales' driving space.
Despite losing their main guard, Roque connected with Peter Rosilio for an inbound lob play to secure a much needed two possession lead. Omega then scored his first basket of the game in a breakaway layup that helped secure their sixth consecutive victory in the journey.
Coach Allen Ricardo praised this all-around play from his squad despite this game having no bearing and expects to keep making the right plays heading into the quarterfinals.
“It’s a team effort eh, talagang hindi naman kakayanin ng isa o dalawang tao lang. Again, it’s all about the reads,” the coach said.
The absence of San Beda’s prized rookie, Janti Miller, took a toll on their offensive scheme. Still, Jomel Puno went on to execute the Red Lions’ gameplan, pouring in 17 points and five rebounds. Veterans Yukien Andrada and Nygel Gonzales contributed 12 points apiece.
The Letran Knights took the top spot in the NCAA group as they staged a matchup against the National University Bulldogs in the Quarterfinals.
QUARTER SCORES: 25-14, 40-40, 63-51, 75-68
CSJL (75) - Estrada 24, Manalili 15, Roque 11, Cuajao 8, Tapenio 6, Rosilio 4, Gammad 3, Buensalida 2, Omega 2, Santos 0, Yusi 0.
SBU (68) - Puno 17, Andrada 12, Gonzales 12, Lina 11, Vailoces 5, Etulle 4, Tolentino 3, Culdora 2, Jamora 2, Celzo 0, Estacio 0, Hawkins 0, Jalbuena 0.