CEU gains UCBL finals; Olivarez forces ‘rubber’

MANILA, Philippines — Reigning champion Centro Escolar University rallied from 13 points down and hacked out a tough 90-86 overtime victory over Diliman College yesterday to book for a return trip to the finals of the second Universities and Colleges Basketball League (UCBL) at the Olivarez gym in Sucat, Parañaque.

But Olivarez College, with Paulo Castro and Vin Begaso stepping up in the second half, repulsed No. 2 Colegio de San Lorenzo, 74-69, to force a sudden death for the other finals berth.

The 5-foot-10 Castro poured in all of his 18 points after the break while the 6-foot-2 Begaso shackled Griffins import Soulemane Chabi Yo as the Sea Lions pulled through in a tight finish to keep its finals hopes alive.

“This victory will add pressure not only to CdSL but also for us,” said Olivarez College coach Mike Saguiguit, seeking to steer the Sea Lions to a second straight finals appearance. “But we will make the most of this big chance.”