San juan: San Beda University topped Group B after defeating Emilio Aguinaldo College, 96-82, in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena.
According to Philippines News Agency, John Bryan Sajonia led the Red Lions with a game-high 26 points, along with four rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Yukien Andrada and Agjanti Miller contributed seven points each, helping San Beda improve to a 9-3 record and secure a twice-to-beat incentive in the quarterfinals. Despite the College of St. Benilde Blazers potentially tying with the Red Lions with an 8-4 record, San Beda holds the No. 2 seed due to their head-to-head victories.
“Our first goal was to secure a top-two spot to gain the twice-to-beat advantage,” Red Lions coach Yuri Escueta stated. “Now, our focus shifts to winning in the quarterfinals. We’ll take it one step at a time, but achieving this goal is a good start.”
Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Aldeo Lucero scored 14 points, while Kyle Ochavo contributed 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals. The loss marks EAC’s eighth defeat in 12 games.
In another matchup, Arellano University convincingly defeated Lyceum, 74-56, improving their record to 6-6 in Group A. JT-Mc Ongotan delivered an impressive performance with 24 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. King Vinoya added 14 points, propelling the Chiefs to the next round without needing a play-in game for the No. 4 seed. Arellano still has an opportunity to tie with Mapua (7-5) for a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.
Lyceum’s John Barba posted 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists. With a 3-9 record, Lyceum will face San Sebastian (3-10) in a play-in game for the fourth seed.
