MBT: Arandia stuns Lyceum
ARANDIA College made it two big wins in a row by beating Lyceum of the Philippines, 68-64, even as University of the Philippines humbled Letran College, 77-74 and Jose Rizal University downed Arellano University, 67-64 to continue their winning streak in the Manila Best Tournament basketball championship at the Trinity University of Asia gym in Quezon City.
Jigs Querido, who was named as the named as the “Best Player of the Game” was the man of the hour as he 19 points for the Rhinos of coach Cezar Babasa and athletic director Jonathan Arandia.
The Parañaque-based school created a big ripple following a huge 76-73 upset win over UAP heavyweight Ateneo de Manila.
Richmon Casino topscored with 12 points for the Pirates, who fell to 2-2.
The Maroons, on the other hand, leaned on the all-around game of Francis Nnoruka to finish off the Knights.
Nnoruka, a 6-9 Nigerian recruit was lwas named Best Player of the Game, led all players with a game-high 43 points and 20 rebounds.
It was the third straight win for the Maroons, who dropped their opening game to Lyceum, 67-78.
CJ Delfino and Pao Javillonar paced the Knights with 14 and 13 points,respectively.
The Heavy Bombers of coach Louie Gonzales banked on MJ Raymundo’s 14 points to seal the win and deal the Chief their first loss after winning two straight games.
Joshua Guiab added 11 points and Lance Benite had 10 points for the Mandaluyong- based squad.
Jose Rizal, which lost their opening game against Letran 69-75, improved its record to 3-1.
Anjord Cabotaje carried the fight for the Chiefs with 23 points.
The Manila Best Tournament is sponsored by Philippine Air Lines, Smart Sports, JamReiBiz Watersports, EastPrint Clothing, Jasmine Crib at Malabrigo Batangas, VS & F Catering, Kick on your Feet Shoe and Appare, Louie’s Buko, I Wellcare, Ezekiel’s Touch Health and Wellness Spa and Black Mamba Energy Drinks.
The tournament is supported by Armstrong Philippines, Fil Nation Select, MS Elite Basketball Saudi Arabia, Youth Basketball Coaches PH, Philippine Amateur Basketball Referees Organization (PABRO) and Samahan Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP).
Former International referee Carlito Camorongan head the technical committe along with Fernan Dela Cruz.