Arellano whips Mapua to secure at least a playoff for a semis berth
By Maxine Louise Lagman
17 October 2017
Arellano University soared through the tournament and finished the elimination round on a high note after defeating Mapua, 81-64, Tuesday to secure at least a playoff for the last Final Four spot in the NCAA Season 93 men’s basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
With their fourth straight win, the Chiefs ended the second round with a 9-9 card even without lead guard Kent Salado. Arellano could officially have a spot in the Final Four if Letran loses to St. Benilde and Perpetual defeats Perpetual on Thursday.
“Malaking bagay din ‘yung napostpone yung game at nilagay as last game. I think this is the first time na nag-four games in a row na nanalo,” said Arellano coach Jerry Codinera.
Arellano pulled away from the by the second quarter, 39-28 and extended to as much as 21 points in the final frame, 76-55, after Lervin Flores knocked down a layup.
Determined to make it into the Final Four, the Chiefs showed an effective 45 percent shooting from the field, while the Cardinals was limited to 37.
Levi dela Cruz led Arellano after firing off four triples and finished with 20 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals.
“I think he [Dela Cruz] is our third best player. Napakalaki ng future niya and his shot selection is still improving,” praised Codinera.
Meanwhile Flores had 14 points, seven boards and two blocks and Zach Nicholls added 11 markers and five boards.
On the other hand, Christian Bunag topped the Cardinals with a double-double 22 markers and 16 boards, while Cedric Pelayo chipped in nine points and two rebounds.
