San Beda, Hope Christian advance to PSSBC semis

MANILA, Philippines - NCAA champion San Beda College downed reigning UAAP titlist National University, 90-75, while defending champion Hope Christian High School outlasted long-time rival Xavier School, 89-73, to advance to the semis of the second Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship (PSSBC) at the Chiang Kai Shek College in Manila over the weekend.

Ranbill Tongco took charge for San Beda in the third quarter as the Red Cubs exploded for 33 points to blast the Bullpups and cruise to the Final Four on a five-game sweep of their group elims assignment.

Hope Christian, on the other hand, got a big lift from Joebert Mercado to defeat the Golden Stallions and forge a semis showdown with San Sebastian College-Recoletos.

The Staglets, who lost to Hope Christian in the finals last year, outclassed Jose Rizal University, 84-69, in the event sponsored by MEC Computer, Wrangler, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Ironcon Builders, Hapee Toothpaste, Welcoat Paints, Dickies Underwear, Ever Bilena, Davies Paint and Spray & Seal Tire Sealant.

Mapua continued its magical run by stunning UAAP runner-up Ateneo, 83-71, with Justin Serrano leading the team’s charge with 16 markers. Three other Mapua players scored in double figures as they claimed their second big win after downing NU last Wednesday.

“Mapua has been a revelation so we expect a battle royale on Wednesday,” said Jimmy dela Cruz, one of the league’s shareholders.

UAAP MVP Thirdy Ravena paced Ateneo with 18 points.

Tongco hit 12 of his 14 points in the decisive third period as he joined hands with bigmen Arvin Tolentino, Franz Abuda and Javyee Mocon in a blistering 24-2 run to erect a 59-45 bulge en route to victory.

Mercado turned in eight of his 13 second half points in the third canto as Hope Christian steadily pulled away, turning what was expected to be a tight contest into a rout.

John Apacible, who stands at 6-foot-3, led Hope with 19 points and 15 boards.