MANILA, Philippines – Colegio de San Juan de Letran regained its share of the lead on top of the league’s team standings by notching a come-from-behind victory over Arellano University, 87-81, on Friday, September 25 at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan City.
Trailing by 11 points with 5:45 remaining in the fourth period, the Intramuros-based Knights spearheaded a 22-5 run that capped off from an and-one play by Felix Apreku to claim a 79-76 edge with 2:11 minutes to go.
However, Zachary Nicholls tied the ball game at 79-all with a beyond-the-arc jumper for Arellano, but Letran sparked an 8-2 blitz to match San Beda College's league-best record of 12-4.
Rey Nambatac stepped up big for Letran with a double-double performance, amassing 21 points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
Joining Nambatac in double-double figures is Jomari Sollano, who registered 10 baskets and 11 rebounds.
Mark Cruz chipped in 12 of his 20 markers in the final frame to go with 4 boards and 4 dimes, while fellow pro-bound Kevin Racal contributed 17 points and 9 rebounds.
On the other hand, Dioncee Holts led Arellano with 16 points and 7 rebounds as the Jerry Codiñera-mentored Chiefs downgraded to a win-loss slate of 10-6.
Meanwhile, Jiovani Jalalon had 14 markers, 7 rebounds and 7 assists, but he went 5-of-15 from the field.
Scores:
Letran (87) – Nambatac 21, Cruz 20, Racal 17, Sollano 10, Calvo 9, Publico 4, Apreku 3, Luib 2, Balagasay 1, Balanza 0, Gedaria 0, Quinto 0
Arellano (81) – Holts 16, Jalalon 14, Enriquez 14, Zamora 12, Meca 8, Nicholls 6, Gumaru 5, Bangga 2, Salado 2, Cadavis 2, Capara 0, Ortega 0
Quarter scores: 13-21, 38-46, 63-69, 87-81. – Rappler.com
