San Lorenzo upends New Era; EAC back on track

Colegio de San Lorenzo survived host New Era University, 60-59, in overtime, while Emilio Aguinaldo College bounced back from an opening day loss yesterday in the eighth McDonald’s-National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) seniors basketball tournament at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Romer Diaz scored five points in the extra period including a free throw in the dying seconds as the Griffins notched their second straight win, while the Generals levelled their slate at 1-1 after beating PATTS College of Aeronautics, 87-77.

Diaz’ earlier hit a leaning jumper to tie the game at 59-all with 11 seconds left and New Era’s chances to turn the game around slipped away on a miscue, allowing the 5-foot-8 Diaz to complete his heroics and give the Griffins the early solo lead in this 19-school meet sponsored by McDonald’s and supported by Iruma balls.

Roderick Martinez topscored for San Lorenzo with 14 points while Fil-Am Robert Allen added 11.

Earlier in the day, Olivarez College and La Salle-Dasmariñas hurdled their respective rivals. Olivarez debuted with a masterful 74-66 victory over National College of Business and Arts and La Salle upended St. Benedict College, 80-59.

Dennis Dominden topscored for the Olivarez Sea Lions with 17 points. He also hauled down 10 rebounds.

Fuor Archers scored in double figures with Jun Santorio scoring 16 points.

Jun Herrera and Efren Dumandan combined for 30 points for the Generals including EAC’s last 10 points that secured the victory and avenged their 70-75 loss to NCBA on Tuesday.

Meantime, four-time women champion Lyceum of the Philippines and Philippine Maritime Institute debuted in style late Wednesday night.