MBT: Lyceum thwarts JRU
NCAA Season 100 host Lyceum of the Philippines brought down Jose Rizal University, 66-61, for its third win in five matches even as Letran College subdued Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, 74-70, in the Manila Best Tournament basketball championship at Trinity University of Asia gym in Quezon City.
Best Player of the Game awardee Matthew Bravo scattered a team-high 14 points for the Pirates of coach Gilbert Malabanan, and assistant coaches MC Caceres and Al Vergara to victory.
Renz Bernardo had 13 points in a losing cause for the Heavy Bombers, who skidded to 4-2 win-loss mark.
The Letran-AIMS was also close, with the Knights of coach Allen Ricardo leaning on James Jumao-as’ game long brillance to beat the Blue Sharks.
Jumao-as, who was named as “Best Player of the Game” fired 15 points for the Intramuros-based squad.
In other games, Arandia College clobbered Mapua University, 93-74, and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta downed Ateneo de Manila University, 68-51.
Handled by coach Cezar Babasa, the Rhinos relied on the all-around play of Geoffrey Santos to post their third win in five games.
Santos, named “Best Player of the Game”, scattered 24 points for the Paranaque City-based team, which added Mapua to its list of notable victims.
The Altas of coach Olsen Racela rode on “Beat Player of the Game” winner Kenjie Duremdes’ 15 points in beating the Blue Eagles and securing their s third win in six matches.
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 Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP).
Former international referee Carlito Camorongan head the technical committe along with Fernan Dela Cruz. AA
