Game-winner lifts San Beda past CSB in opener

Alexx Esponga

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The Red Lions kicked off their 89th season campaign with a narrow win against hosts College of St. Benilde.

ESCAPE ACT. The Lions needed a last-second basket to defeat the Blazers. Photo by Rappler/JM Albelda.

MANILA, Philippines — Art Dela Cruz sank the game-winner as San Beda College escaped upset-conscious College of Saint Benilde, 71-70, in the opening game of the 89th NCAA men’s basketball tournament Saturday, June 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Down by one point with 4.7 seconds left, the Red Lions designed on a masterfully-designed final play by coach Boyet Fernandez to turn back the Blazers.

Seeking a fourth straight title, San Beda went on a 10-0 opening tear, but could not totally put away the season hosts.

Fons Saavedra drained a triple with 9.8 seconds remaining to push St. Benilde ahead, 70-69, but the Blazers faltered on the last defensive play to surrender the win.

Dela Cruz paced the Lions with 16 points and 11 rebounds while Ola Adeogun and Dela Rosa added 11 and 10 markers, respectively.

Meanwhile, Mark Romero had 19 points and Paolo Taha added 15 for St. Benilde. – with reports from Myke Miravite/Rappler.com

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