Escamis powers Cardinals to Game 1 victory

MANILA, Philippines —  Clint Escamis delivered an MVP effort as Mapua overpowered College of St. Benilde, 84-73, yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to move on the verge of claiming a first NCAA senior basketball championship in more than three decades.

Riding the crest of his career 33-point performance in an 84-73 victory over the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates last Nov. 23 at the Cuneta Astrodome, Escamis sizzled for 30 points on this one in carrying the Cardinals to a 1-0 lead, a win away from a first NCAA crown since Mapua last went all the way to the top 33 years ago.

But the Cardinals were not to celebrate just yet, with the memory of last year’s heartbreaking experience still lingering. Last time, they won the series opener but they lost the next two matches and the championship to the San Beda Lions.

“You don’t win a championship in Game One, so the job is not yet finished,” said a somber Escamis.

“Ayaw namin ma-jinx,” said Escamis’ teammate JC Recto, who chipped in 15 points.

CSB just completely and flatly failed in stopping, even slowing down, the red-hot Escamis.

Worse, the Blazers just couldn’t find their offensive flow that helped them book a return trip to the finals.

They did find Allen Liwag doing most of the work with 18 points, 14 rebounds, three blocks and two steals.