MANILA, Philippines — San Beda drew strength from James Kwekuteye and JB Bahio in the clutch as it overhauled an early 17-point deficit to spank fierce rival Letran, 76-68, in NCAA Season 98 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre yesterday.
Kwekuteye erupted for 11 of his team-best 17 points while Bahio fired eight of his 16 in the second half as the Lions found their way back into the top four with a 3-2 mark, the same slate by Knights.
It was San Beda’s first win over its three-peat-seeking foe since a 79-76 triumph in Game Two of the 2019 finals that the latter won.
The Lions, who were without Ralph Penuela and Justine Sanchez due to health reasons, also avenged their 59-56 loss to the Knights last April 29 that led to the latter sweeping their way to their second straight crown.
Earlier, Jose Rizal U sustained its hot run as it stunned last year’s runner-up Mapua, 67-64, in overtime.
Joshua Guiab dropped a double-double performance with 17 points and 12 rebounds while Marwin Dionisio and Agen Miranda chipped in 15 and 13 points, respectively, as the Bombers notched its third win in a row after two losses.