Statement performance from Cuntapay

MANILA, Philippines — Left unsigned although selected in the recent PBA Draft, San Beda big man Damie Cuntapay has set his sights on proving he is worthy of a spot in the pros.

In his first game in his personal redemption journey, the 6-5 bruiser delivered a head-turning performance as he helped lift San Beda to an 85-61 destruction of a listless Arellano U side and into a share of the NCAA Season 99 basketball lead at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Cuntapay, drafted 49th overall by Terrafirma but wasn’t signed, fired 13 points he laced with four booming three-pointers and added a game-high 10 rebounds on top of a steal and a block.

It was his way of saying he’s good enough to play in the PBA.

And Cuntapay stressed he’ll try to help the Lions as much as he can.

“Focused muna ako sa San Beda,” he said.

Interestingly, Cuntapay got a pair of shoes from San Beda coach Yuri Escueta for his rebounding.

“I told him (Cuntapay) kasi if he gets at least 10 rebounds, I’ll give him shoes,” said Escueta.

Jacob Cortez, son of former pro Mike, likewise made a big impression as he led the Lions in scoring with 16 points while James Payosing, Yukien Andrada and skipper Peter Alfaro scattered 13, 12 and 11 points, respectively.

In the second game, Mapua outgunned San Sebastian in the second half to hammer out an 80-70 win.

Warren Bonifacio buried a three-pointer, swished a pair of free throws and plucked a crucial rebound late to help the Cardinals overcome a furious Stags fightback and preserve the win.