Cardinals break Knights defense

MANILA, Philippines — Mapua found a way to neutralize Letran’s full-court press as it hammered out an emphatic 86-78 victory yesterday and stayed at No. 2 in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Chris Hubilla nearly pulled off a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists that made up for his eight turnovers as the Cardinals improved to 9-3 or just half a game behind the St. Benilde Blazers (9-2).

“Hindi ko na iniisip sarili ko, gusto ko lang manalo team,” said the bullstrong rookie wingman.

Hubilla meshed well with JC Recto, who chipped in 14 points while big man John Jabonete filled the void for starting but suspended center Marc Igliane by firing 13 points.

The Cardinals won despite the struggles of skipper Clint Escamis and the ankle injury to Marc Cuenco during the game.

The Knights, minus their top scorer Jimboy Estrada who was suspended for a game, fell from a share of No. 4 with the Lyceum Pirates (6-5) to fifth with a 6-6 mark.

Earlier, San Beda relied on Yuki Andrada’s three-point explosion as it repulsed University of Perpetual Help, 57-53, in keeping third place at 8-4. The Altas dropped to 5-7.