Escamis powers Cardinals past Altas

MANILA, Philippines — Mapua dynamo Clint Escamis came through with a career best performance as the Cardinals rallied past the University of Perpetual Help Altas, 71-65, in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena yesterday.

With Mapua playing catch-up most of the game, Escamis plodded through and scored eight of his 28 points late to help the Cardinals snatch their second win in three outings.

“We’re coming, redemption season,” said Escamis, who is aiming to bounce back from last year’s finals meltdown versus eventual champion San Beda.

UPHSD stumbled to its first loss after two wins in a row.

Earlier, Lyceum of the Philippines University fought back from 12 points down in the fourth quarter in stealing a 97-92 victory from Jose Rizal U.

John Barba, captain Vince Cunanan and Mclaude Guadana combined for 29 points in the final period when the Pirates outgunned the Bombers, 36-20, and claimed their first win after two stinging defeats.

Barba tied his career-high 28 points while Cunanan and Barba had 20 and 17, respectively.