Marvin Raymundo delivered a career-high performance with 21 points and 13 rebounds, leading the defensive-minded Jose Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers to a 90-74 victory over the San Sebastian College Stags on Wednesday at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.
After averaging just three points in his first three games, Raymundo’s breakout effort played a crucial role in JRU’s first win in the 100th NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
The Heavy Bombers pulled away from a close 69-64 lead in the fourth quarter with a decisive 9-2 run. Raymundo capped the surge with a jumper at the 4:47 mark, pushing JRU to a comfortable 78-66 advantage.
With this win, the Heavy Bombers improved their record to 1-3, while the Stags dropped to 2-2, now sharing third place with the University of Perpetual Help Altas, San Beda Red Lions, and Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals.
“This is a huge boost, a big relief for the team,” said JRU head coach Louie Gonzalez.
Mart Barrera and Jonathan Medina also contributed significantly, scoring 18 and 11 points, respectively.
Next, the Heavy Bombers face a tough test on Saturday when they take on the San Beda Red Lions.
For the Stags, Paeng Are led with 17 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block.
