Arellano rips Lyceum, wins 3rd straight in NCAA second round

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Arellano University strengthened its campaign to enter the final four by beating Lyceum of the Philippines University with a 97-83 shutout in the NCAA Season 91 men’s basketball tournament on Tuesday, September 8 at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan City.

Jiovani Jalalon starred in Arellano’s statement-making victory over the Intramuros-based Lyceum as he amassed 19 markers.

Aside from Jalalon, 3 of his teammates made it in double figures as Dioncee Holts had 16 points, Donald Gumaru added 14 buckets and David Ortega contributed 11 baskets.

“We will continue to build up. We will use this opportunity to solidify and enhance their performance,” Arellano coach Jerry Codiñera said in the post-game interview.

Arellano’s frontline unit charred the nets from the get-go and nailed no less than 20 points in each quarter.

As every game counts in the second phase of eliminations, Codiñera stressed that he would not allow other teams at the bottom part of the standings to score an upset at Arellano’s expense.

Jose Rizal University picked up a controversial win over Arellano in double overtime on August 27, while Colegio de San Juan de Letran suffered a loss at the hands of San Sebastian College-Recoletos on August 25.

“We controlled the game from start to finish. The upset is always in the back of our minds. I cannot allow it to happen again. I always push the boys to stick to the basics,” Codiñera stated.

The Chiefs improved their win-loss record to 9-3 and claimed solo third place, while Lyceum fell to 3-10 as the Pirates were led by Wilson Baltazar, who registered 19 points.

Scores:

Arellano (97) – Jalalon 18, Holts 16, Gumaru 14, Ortega 11, Salado 9, Zamora 8, Bangga 6, Cadavis 5, Meca 4, Nicholls 4, Enriquez 2, Capara 0, Ongolo-Ongolo 0, Tano 0.

Lyceum (83) – Baltazar 19, Ayaay 16, Nguidjol 13, Marata 10, Bulawan 8, Lugo 4, Alanes 3, Malabanan 2, Soliman 2, Lacastesantos 2, Mbida 2, Elmejrab 2, Sunga 0. 

Quarter scores: 24-13, 47-32, 75-54, 97-83.

 – Rappler.com