Blazers zero in on semis

MANILA, Philippines — Big man Allen Liwag knew he needed to play smart for the College of St. Benilde Blazers to stay afloat in the NCAA Season 100 cage wars. He did.

With offensive attack revolving around the 6-foot-6 Liwag, CSB turned back Emilio Aguinaldo College, 69-65, yesterday to move a step closer to the Final Four at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Liwag was the source of inside strength for his squad as he powered his way to 15 points and nine rounds while helping soften the perimeter defense for their shooters resulting to the Blazers swishing 10 thunderous triples.

“Sabi lang nila coach mag adjust dahil pag nasa loob ako zone sila, pag nasa labas, man to man,” said Liwag, a transferee from EAC.

It was CSB’s 11th win in 13 games, ensuring the Blazers of at least a playoff for a Final Four ticket.

Another win will catapult it straight to the Final Four while strengthening its bid for a twice-to-beat semis incentive.

In the other game, San Sebastian walloped Arellano U, 88-75, to keep its glimmer of Final Four hope alive with a 4-10 record.

The Chiefs slipped to 5-9.