Allen Liwag delivered a standout double-double performance as the College of Saint Benilde Blazers triumphed over last season’s runner-up, the Mapua University Cardinals, 78-65, on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Liwag, a 6’6″ forward, dominated with 23 points and 18 rebounds, leading the Blazers in avenging their Final Four loss to the Cardinals in their opening match of the 100th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament.
Liwag came alive in the final quarter, scoring nine points during a crucial run that allowed the Blazers to pull ahead. Tied at 63-all, St. Benilde launched a game-sealing 15-2 run, with Liwag’s jumper and free throw in the closing seconds locking in the 78-65 victory.
A former player from Emilio Aguinaldo College, Liwag’s commanding presence on both ends of the floor helped the Blazers secure a share of the lead alongside the San Beda University Red Lions.
Gab Cometa added 17 points for the Blazers, who now prepare for a crucial showdown with the Red Lions on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre, with the lead in the standings at stake.
