Perez lifts Lyceum past San Sebastian, nears NCAA elimination-round sweep
By Maxine Louise Lagman
29 September 2017
The Lyceum of the Philippines University claimed their 15th straight win after escaping the tough San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 78-73 on Friday in the NCAA Season 93 men’s basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
Lyceum climbed for a 15-0 card with the heroics of CJ Perez, who exploded a career-high double-double record of 28 points and 10 rebounds, along with four steals, an assist and a block.
After Perez’ leadership in the fourth quarter, Lyceum held on to a 70-62 lead, but the Golden Stags cut the deficit to one, 74-73 in the final two minutes of the game with the help of Allyn Bulanadi.
But the unbeatable Lyceum kept San Sebastian scoreless as Jayson David and RK Ilagan held possession of the game to assist Jaycee Marcelino shoot the last basket to cap off their 15th win.
“We really have to be mentally tough. What’s more than physical toughness is the mental and at the end of the day, it is the final score that matters,” said Coach Topex Robinson.
MJ Ayyay finished with 11 points and seven rebounds. Jaycee Marcelino, on the other hand tallied 11 points and six rebounds, while Mike Nzeusseu had a double-double record of 11 markers and 11 boards.
“Credit goes to the coaches for making my job easier. I’m just proud with the way we just stood our ground,” added Robinson.
Lyceum’s 15-0 streak is the second-best start in the league’s history, as San Beda holds the best start record of 16-0 in Season 86 back in 2010.
Meanwhile, Allyn Bulanadi powered San Sebastian with 19 points and eight rebounds, while Michael Calisaan chipped in a double-double 13 points and 11 rebounds.
