Allan Laurenaria, a former standout of the Mapua Red Robins, delivered clutch plays to lift the Jose Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers past the San Beda Red Lions, 67-66, on Friday at the Filoil Arena in San Juan.
The 6-foot-1 Laurenaria came up big in the closing minutes, scoring all six of his points in the final period to help JRU secure its second win in three games in the 101st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament.
His late-game heroics — a driving layup in the last four seconds and a crucial rebound off Bryan Sajonia’s missed jumper — sealed the victory for the Heavy Bombers, who now share the Group B lead with San Beda and the College of St. Benilde Blazers.
“This is a huge confidence booster for our team,” said new JRU head coach Nani Epondulan. “I told the players that as long as they stick to our system, we can go far. It’s not about size or athleticism — our heart makes the difference.”
Laurenaria, 20, has built a reputation for making big shots in pressure situations — and Friday’s performance was another testament to that clutch ability.
Sean Salvador led the Heavy Bombers with 15 points.
In the juniors’ division, Jose Jomalesa scored 13 points as the San Beda Red Cubs notched their first win in three games, beating the JRU Light Bombers, 64-52.
Juris San Juan added 11 points, including back-to-back baskets in the final 45 seconds that widened the gap to 12, while Lex Callueng finished with 11 for the still winless Light Bombers.
