The Mapua Cardinals, with Andrew Estrella coming up with crucial baskets in the final minute, stopped the University of Perpetual Help Altas, 76-71, in a no-bearing match Thursday at the Filoil Flying V Center in San Juan.
They were behind by two in the final minute when Estrella came into the picture and scored on plays that allowed the Cardinals to claim their third win in 15 matches in the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament.
The 5'11 Estrella had 22 points, and tied the contest at 71-all in the remaining 54 seconds with a spin shot.
Then, he connected with a triple with 28 seconds hand the Cardinals a 74-71 cushion.
The Altas bungled a chance to tie the game when GJ Ylagan's three-pointer rimmed out.
During the turnover, the Cardinals moved further ahead off Leo Gabo with 14 seconds to go following Cedric Pelayo’s assist.
The Altas, with Genmar Ylagan also making 22 points, have so far lost their fifth game in six outings to move down to 4-11.
The Cardinals struggled with guard JP Nieles sent out following a left knee injury in the remaining 5:16 of the fourth period.
Christian Bunag added 19 points and 14 rebounds for the Cards.
Keith Pido contributed 18 points for the Altas.