Ailing Red Cubs upend Lighties

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda bucked food poisoning that hit majority of its players as it smothered Jose Rizal U, 89-71, at the start of junior action in the 86th NCAA basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City yesterday.

Adams Abatayo fired 21 points while Dominic Nazareno, Al Gotladera and Daryl Nazareno chipped in 13, 12 and 10 points, respectively, as they more than made up for some ailing Red Cubs, who just came out of the hospital due to food poisoning.

“I hate to say this and use this as an excuse but 10 of my players just came out of the hospital because of food poisoning,” said San Beda mentor Brit Reroma.

Earlier, Isaac Pante took over in the stretch while Gino Jumao-as came through with a solid all-around game as San Sebastian turned back Letran, 89-83.

Pante hit a triple to shatter the 83-all count then capped his endgame heroics with two free throws to seal the victory.

The high-leaping Jumao-as, on the other hand, topscored with 27 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, two steals and two shot blocks.