Jose Rizal University squandered a 21-point lead in the third quarter but recovered in time to carve out a 79-75 victory over Letran yesterday and snap the Knights’ four-game win run in the 83rd NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan.
The Bombers, who dropped their last two games on last quarter fold-ups, surprised the Knights with a strong first quarter performance, sustained their form in the next two quarters before losing their rhythm and composure in the face of the Knights’ pressure defense in the fourth.
But John Wilson and Marc Cagoco steeled themselves up down the stretch and combined for six of JRU’s eight attempts at the free throw line to preserve the lead and the win.
San Beda took the solo lead with a 73-64 rout of San Sebastian in the second game.
The Red Lions roared to a 21-10 first quarter lead and were never seriously threatened as they claimed their fifth straight win to move within a victory of sweeping the first round.
Pong Escobal topscored with 18 points while Sam Ekwe added 15 points and 17 rebounds for San Beda, which is set to play Letran Wednesday.
Jimbo Aquino had 16 points while Gilbert Bulawan chipped in 11 points for the Stags.
“We dropped the last two games after collapsing in the fourth quarter. We’re in the same situation although this time, the boys were able to hang tough,” said JRU mentor Ariel Vanguardia.
The win improved JRU’s win-loss record to 2-3 to take solo fourth while dealing Letran its first loss after streaking to four victories.