MCU stuns Olivarez, UB raps Lyceum-Batangas

MANILA, Philippines — RJ Tadeo exploded in the clutch as newcomer Manila Central University stunned last year’s runner-up Olivarez College, 74-61, in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 yesterday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

With the Supremos protecting a slim 59-54 lead early in the payoff period, the 5-foot-8 Tadeo strung up 11 points with three triples as the Caloocan-based squad ripped the game apart, 70-54, with 3.15 remaining.

The Sea Lions, who were swept by the Centro Escolar University Scorpions in their best-of-three title series last year, never recovered from Tadeo’s onslaught.

Tadeo finished with 16 points, six rebounds and two assists while three other starters also wound up in double figures with Bi Tizie Yannick Dje coming through with another double-double of 14 points and 15 boards.

University of Batangas improved its record to 4-3 after overpowering Lyceum of the Philippines University, 85-76, in a duel of neighbor schools in their province.

The Pirates fell to 3-4, with their bid to finish in the top 4 in peril.

Only Seanne Devon General from MCU’s starting unit failed to breach the double-figure mark with Andrei Romenez and Jan Hilao chipping in 15 and 10 points respectively.