Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas squandered a massive 20-point lead in the third quarter but staged a strong comeback in the fourth to defeat Philippine Women’s University, 77-72, in the UCAL-PG Flex Linoleum 7th Season on Saturday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Alpha Ba powered Lyceum to its first win of the season, dominating the paint with a double-double performance of 23 points and 13 rebounds. He also had two assists in just over 35 minutes of play.
The 6-foot-8 center received ample support from teammates David Jose and Kurt Lee Laput, who contributed 20 and 13 points, respectively.
The Pirates redeemed themselves after a disappointing 81-71 loss to Immaculada Concepcion College-Caloocan in their season opener last Thursday.
Meanwhile, University of Batangas evened its record to 1-1 with an 84-77 victory over Philippine Christian University-Dasmarinas, thanks to a balanced offensive effort.
John Paul Wendy led the charge for UB with 25 points and 8 rebounds, while Dhave Lalap chipped in 16 points.
James Torrato and John Atienza added 12 and 11 points, respectively, as UB bounced back from a narrow 95-90 defeat to Manila Central University.
In their matchup, Lyceum controlled the first half, holding a 41-35 lead at halftime and extending their advantage to 20 points (50-30) midway through the third quarter.
However, the Patriots mounted a spirited comeback, outscoring the Pirates 20-2 behind the stellar play of John Emiel Bajet and John Espiritu, tying the game at 52-all heading into the final period.
PWU even managed to seize a 60-56 lead early in the fourth quarter, but they faltered in the face of Lyceum’s late-game surge.
The Pirates’ resilient finish sealed the victory and handed the Patriots a heartbreaking defeat.
