MANILA, Philippines — For the first time ever, the University of Perpetual Help has a clear shot at a breakthrough championship in NCAA junior basketball.
It became clearer following the Junior Altas’ emphatic 94-88 victory over reigning titlist Letran yesterday that sent the former straight to the top in Season 99 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
Amiel Acido presided over the shocking win after unleashing a masterful 27-point effort, including 17 in the third period when the Johp Cleopas-mentored squad survived a ferocious rally by the back-to-back title-seeking Dominican school in claiming a 7-1 slate for the solo lead.
It could finish in the top two, if not seize the lead, with a win over San Sebastian in the final elimination round play date tomorrow.
The Squires dropped to 6-2.
Perpetual Help, Letran and Mapua (6-1), which was tackling SSC-R (5-2) at press time, have claimed a Final Four berth following San Beda’s 82-79 defeat to Jose Rizal U in the next game.