Alanes rescues Lyceum as Pirates top Saint Benilde

MANILA, Philippines – Shaq Alanes’ three-pointer in the dying seconds saved Lyceum of the Philippines University from nearly losing three-straight games in the ongoing NCAA Season 91 men’s senior basketball tourney as the Pirates defeated College of Saint Benilde, 72-69, on Thursday, July 16 at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan City.

A fourth year guard for the Topex Robinson-mentored troop, Alanes handed a heartbreaking loss to the Green Blazers when he scored a long-range jumper to put Lyceum up by one, 70-69, with 6.7 seconds left in the regulation.

Lyceum formally sealed its first win this season after a missed layup by Saint Benilde’s Jonathan Grey, forcing the Green shirts to foul Alanes who nailed two charities.

Playing the hero role for the Pirates, Alanes registered 18 points to go with a rebound and two assists.

Rookie court general Noah Lugo contributed 16 points, while big man Joseph Angelo Gabayni flexed the muscle for Lyceum in the second half to chip in 11 points.

Saint Benilde relied on its ace gunslinger Grey, who had 19 markers, including a go-ahead three-pointer at the 39.6-mark of the fourth period that gave the Green Blazers a two-point lead, 69-67.

However, Mer Ayaay dished the ball to an open Alanes on the left corner to spoil Saint Benilde’s early celebration and barge Lyceum into the winner’s column.

Lyceum improved to a 1-2 standing, while Saint Benilde absorbed its third setback in four outings. 

Scores:

Lyceum (72) -Alanes 18, Lugo 16, Gabayni 11, Baltazar 10, Ayaay 8, Soliman 2, Nguidjol 2, Marata 2, Lacastesantos 2, Bulawan 1 

Saint Benilde (69) -Grey 19, Saavedra 12, Nayve 11, Fajarito 7, Ongteco 7, Jonson 6, Flores 3, Domingo 2, Castor 2.

Quarter scores: 16-16, 26-24, 44-38, 72-69

– Rappler.com