After its 78-75 loss in the first round, Colegio de San Juan de Letran came back with revenge on its mind, as they defeated Mapua Cardinals and eliminated them from the Final Four contention, 88-79 on Friday in the NCAA Season 93 men’s basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
“Maganda ang depensa namin. Na-execute yung game plan kaya naman naging madali yung opensa din sa amin,” noted Letran Coach Jeff Napa.
Rey Nambatac exploded for the Knights, as he planted 17 of his 25 points in the first half alog with eight rebounds and led Letran to an incredible 47-45 halftime advantage and continued its surge all throughout the match.
The Cardinals attempted to catch up in the final seconds of the game, as Leo Gabo made a 5-0 run to cut their deficit to just seven, 79-86, but Bong Quinto answered back for Letran to seal the win.
“Credit to the boys, kasi nagtrabaho talaga sila and we executed our game plan. Magandang bwelo din para sa amin going to Tuesday’s game,” said Napa, as they are scheduled to face San Sebastian.
Quinto added 22 points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Jerrick Balanza finished with 14 points, six rebounds and three steals as the Knights took their second straight win and tie with JRU for third place in the Final Four bid.
Meanwhile, Christian Bunag paced the Cardinals with a double double 23 points and 12 rebounds and Gabo added 15 points as they are handed their 11th straight defeat with a 1-12 card.
