By: Aianna Xyril Monsod
Photo courtesy of Asiabasket.
The Letran Knights dominated Fil-Am Republic Lakas California with a 97-78 victory in the Asia Basket 2025 International Invitational held at the Play Time Filoil Centre on July 21.
Edry Alejandro spearheaded the Knights' offense, delivering an impressive 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals. He was strongly supported by Denzil Walker, who contributed 17 points, and Chad Gammad, who added 13 points to secure the win.
Letran overcame early missed shots with relentless offensive rebounding, while their defense forced multiple turnovers from Lakas California. A strong finish to the first quarter, highlighted by back-to-back baskets and successful and-one plays from Aaron Buensalida and Walker, propelled the Knights to a commanding 25-12 lead at the end of the opening frame.
The Knights carried their offensive momentum into the second frame, taking a 14-point edge into the half.
In the third, Lakas California leaned on Luka Spinoso and free throws to stay in the game. However, Letran continued to answer with Gammad knocking down three-pointers, entering the final canto with a 74-57 cushion.
Lakas California’s Ashton Andrews sparked a brief fourth-quarter run with consecutive baskets, but Alejandro's steady mid-range shooting kept the Knights firmly ahead.
With just under three minutes remaining, Walker extended the margin to 20, then punctuated his Asia Basket debut with a statement dunk in the final seconds.
Spinoso tallied 18 points, 15 rebounds, five steals, a block, and an assist, while Andrews matched his 18 points and added six rebounds and four assists to lead Lakas California’s effort.
The Letran Knights will look to extend their winning streak as they face the San Beda Red Lions on July 22, 6 PM, back at the Play Time Filoil Centre.
QUARTER SCORES: 25-12, 52-38, 74-57, 97-78
CSJL (97) - Alejandro 19, Walker 17, Gammad 13, Beunsalida 7, Diamante 7, Santos 7, Estrada 4, Gazzingan 4, Muyuela 4, Omega 4, Montecillo 3, Rosilio 2, Yusi 2.
LAKAS (78) - Spinoso 18, Andrews 18, Malinis 11, Pangilinan 8, Llanes 7, Reyes 7, Anyanwu 4, Prades 3, Serrano 2, Dimalanta 0, Valenzona 0.