During the 2016 Premier Cup, CJ Perez suited up for the first time with the Team A of the Ateneo Blue Eagles. However, Perez only played two games for the Blue Eagles before being kicked out of the school
After another year on the sidelines, the former Gilas cadet did not show any rust, leading the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates in a 90-89 win over the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, in Group A action of the 2017 Premier Cup, Monday afternoon.
And just like in his days with the San Sebastian Golden Stags, the 6-foot-2 swingman was all over the place, scoring 13 points, grabbing six rebounds, dishing out three assists, and stealing the ball thrice.
But it was not just Perez who shhined in his debut as Robinson’s two new recruits made their mark as well. Jaycee Marcelino also had a huge debut for Lyceum with a team-high 14 markers and three assists, while twin brother Jayvee Marcelino got 11 points and five boards.
“Saan-saan napulot. I guess those are just players that were left behind by other teams na pinulot namin, they committed to play for us. The good thing about this team, CJ is one of the best players and he’s always the same as the other guys. It’s a collective effort. It’s a win for us,” said Lyceum head coach Topex Robinson.
Lyceum failed to protect its 86-76 lead with 3:28 remaining as Mike Nieto drilled two treys to get the Blue Eagles within one, 90-89, in the final minute of the game. 1:11. Perez turned the ball over on the other end, giving Ateneo a glimmer of hope, but Nieto failed to cash in on his potential game-winning trey in the waning seconds of the game.
“We were lucky down the stretch, Our players just didnt give up. We know how good Coach Tab is, I’m learning a lot from Coach Tab. For me this is an experience that will sharpen us,” said Lyceum head coach Topex Robinson.
MJ Ayaay had 13 points, four rebounds, and three assists while NU transferee Ralph Tansingco had 12 in his first game with the Pirates.
Mike Nieto paced the Blue Eagles with 17 points on 3-of-5 shooting from threes, that went with eight rebounds while Thirdy Ravena had 14 points and seven boards.
Lyceum will have a one week break before facing the Letran Knights on Wednesday, May 10 at 5:00pm. Ateneo will next face the UST Growling Tigers on Wednesday, May 3 at 5:00pm.
The Scores:
LPU (90) – Marcelino Jc. 14, Perez 13, Ayaay 13, Tansingco 12, Marcelino 11 Jv., Pretta 10, Caduyac 6, Baltazar 3, Ibanez 2, Nzeusseu 2, Santos 2, Marata 2, Serrano 0, Cinco 0, Liwag 0, Pallares 0.
ADMU (89) – Nieto Mi. 17, Ravena 14, Ikeh 13, Asistio 13, Nieto Ma. 8, Verano 5, Mendoza 5, Tolentino 3, Tio 3, Wong 3, Mamuyac 3, Porter 2, Black 0, Go 0, Ildefonso 0, White 0.
Quarterscores: 22-14, 42-39, 69-61, 90-89.
