The Malayan High School of Science Red Robins overcame a brief scare from the La Salle Greenhills Greenies to escape with a 78-71 verdict last night at the Arena in San Juan.
Jeff Sapinit once again showed the way with 22 points while Warren Bonifacio eked out 11 points and 10 rebounds for the Red Robins, who posted win no. 6.
This put the Red Robins in the solo lead of the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.
Carl Lacap struck with 10 points, including a crucial steal and basket off Albert Bordeos with 1:11.
The 18-year-old Lacap made his move right after a triple from Bordeos in the last 1:23 allowed the Junior Blazers to gain the upperhand for a short moment, 71-70.
Bordeos, who had seven points, connected with his trey to cap LSGH’s rally from nine points down, 51-60, at the end of the third period.
Sapinit missed an attempt in the next play, and it led to a turnover following LSGH cager Joshua Marcos rebound
Then, Lacap came into the picture.
“Pintrabaho sa akin ni coach si Bordeos. Dinepensahan ko siya. Di ko akalain na ma-steal ko at ma-shoot iyun. Gawa ito ng gustong manalo,” said Lacap.
The Red Robins moved further away after that and off Clint Escamis’ three-point play with 47.9 ticks left, 76-71.
“Expected naman na close fight ito. Nakawala kami sa steal ni Lacap. Hindi sila bibitaw (LSGH) kahit ilang puntos ang hinabol nila,” said Red Robins coach Randy Alcantara.
Joshua David topscored with 24 points for the Greenies, who dropped to second position with their 5-1 card.
Big man Will Gozum, who was in foul trouble, hit nine points for the Red Robins,
Arellano Braves 83, EAC Brigadiers 65
Kobe Camacho unloaded 24 points while Aaron Fermin added 15 points and 17 rebounds to tow the Arellano University Braves to an 83-65 pummelling of the EAC Brigadiers.
Coach Tylon Darjuan said the Braves’ fourth win in six outings will help prepare the team for tougher matches ahead.
Camacho hit seven points right after the Brigadiers threatened, 34-37, and the Braves went on to earn an 11-point lead, 45-34, with 5:02 to go.
This put the Braves in third, behind the Mapua Red Robins and the La Salle Greenhills Junior Blazers.
“Naglaro lang kami. Iyung mga daratang pang mga laro ay malalakas. Maganda lang ang gising ng mga bata,” said Braves coach Tylon Darjuan.