Cubs nip Baby Tams on Diputado clutch hit

MANILA, Philippines - Adven Diputado hit a buzzer-beater as four-time defending NCAA champion San Beda College edged UAAP reigning titlist Far Eastern University, 80-79, to advance to the semifinals of the first Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship (PSSBC) at the Chiang Kai Shek College gym in Manila last Sunday.

The Red Cubs proved steadier than the Baby Tamaraws down the stretch as they battled back from a nine-point deficit early in the fourth period to frustrate the Diliman-based squad, which appeared to have gained the momentum at endgame. 

After burying a triple, back-to-back UAAP MVP Jerie Pingoy calmly made two pressure-packed charities, shoving FEU to a 79-78 edge with three seconds left in the contest.

But Diputado spoiled FEU’s celebrations as he eluded his defender to launch the game-winning jumper.

With the win, the Red Cubs, winners of 20 NCAA titles, arranged a Final Four showdown with the San Sebastian Staglets, a team they have beaten in the last two NCAA championships.

The Staglets completed the domination of the NCAA teams over UAAP counterparts as they downed the University of Santo Tomas, 82-61.

Letran also came through with a stunning 67-61 victory over reigning Metro Manila Tiong Lian Basketball Association (MMTLBA) champion Chiang Kai Shek College.

The Squires, who drew 27 points and a tournament-high 23 rebounds from John Quinto, will face Tiong Lian runner-up Hope Christian High School in the other semis match.

The Hope Christians posted a 79-62 rout over Xavier School behind the 26-point performance of Clint Doliquez.

The semis matches of the event sponsored by Ironcon Builders, MEC Networks, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Blackwater Sports, Wrangler, Welcoat House Paints, and Hapee Toothpaste and Dickies Underwear will be held Friday while the finals is set Monday at The Arena in San Juan.

Mocon led the Red Cubs with 22 points and 14 boards while Joshua Caracut and Diputado combined for 24 points. Pingoy paced the Baby Tams with 20 markers.