By: Aianna Xyril Monsod
Photo by Anne Nicole Rebagay
The Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights dropped their second straight game to open the season, falling to long-time rival San Beda Red Lions, 58-68, on October 5 at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
Jonathan Manalili spearheaded in protecting their squad’s honor against their rivals, marking 13 points, six assists, and two steals.
San Beda opened strong with a series of free throws, building an early eight-point advantage. However, Letran fought back as Kevin Santos delivered back-to-back baskets to trim the deficit, closing the first quarter at 18-22.
The second frame proved to be a tight battle. The Knights managed to tie the game and briefly take a four-point lead, but costly turnovers in the final minutes allowed the Red Lions to regain control and close the half ahead, 34-37.
Both teams traded baskets early in the third canto before San Beda’s Agjanti Miller ignited a scoring surge with consecutive shots and an and-one play that widened the gap.
That momentum carried into the final quarter, where the Mendiola squad’s lead ballooned to double digits. Though Letran’s Manalili and Mark Omega clawed back within six points midway through, the Red Lions stayed composed and controlled the pace.
Miller once again took charge in the closing moments, punctuating his standout performance with a dunk that sealed their 68–58 victory.
The Filipino-American recruit finished with 22 points, five rebounds, two steals, and one block to give Letran a show to remember in their next bout.
The Knights is on the hunt for their first victory against another powerhouse, the Benilde Blazers on October 8 at the same venue.
QUARTER SCORES: 18-22, 34-37, 45-53, 58-68
CSJL (58) - Manalili 13, Cuajao 10, Rosilio 7, Buensalida 6, Estrada 5, Omega 5, Roque 4, Santos 4, Tapenio 3, Gazzingan 1, Gammad 0.
SBU (68) - Miller 22, Sajonia 11, Lina 6, Reyes 6, Celzo 5, Gonzales 5, Etulle 4, Estacio 3, Bonzalida 2, Culdora 2, Puno 2, Jalbuena 0, Songcuya 0.