By: Brenn Allen Flores
John Barba erupted for 25 points, steering Lyceum of the Philippines University to a thrilling 90-86 overtime victory against winless Arellano University and posting their second straight win in the NCAA Season 100 Seniors Basketball Tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Friday.
With this win, the Pirates improved to a 2-2 win-loss record, while Arellano continued to search for their first victory of the season, falling to 0-4.
Barba’s performance was pivotal; he not only led the Pirates with his scoring but also contributed three assists and eight rebounds while shooting an impressive 61.1 percent from the field.
His clutch shooting in overtime proved decisive.
Trailing 82-81, Barba sank a three-pointer, followed by a floater that put the Pirates ahead, 86-82, with 1:38 left in the extra period.
Despite Barba’s heroics, Arellano fought back. Troy Valencia and Ernest Geronimo both converted layups to briefly give Arellano the lead,
but Mclaude Guadana responded effectively, firing back with key baskets to secure the win for Lyceum.
The game started with the Pirates controlling the first half, establishing a lead as large as 13 points. However, Arellano managed to regroup, with Jeadan Ongotan converting a three-point play to bring the score to 45-44 as they entered the second half.
The Chiefs came out strong after halftime, launching a 19-7 run that allowed them to lead by double digits, 63-52, in the third quarter.
Arellano maintained its advantage until Gyle Montaño hit a crucial three-pointer to tie the game at 78-all with less than a minute remaining in regulation.
In a tense finish, both teams exchanged free throws before Guadana’s missed three-pointer sent the game into overtime, locked at 79-all.
Montaño ended the night with 17 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, while Guadana contributed 12 points and seven assists.
Looking ahead, Lyceum will face Mapua University on Tuesday, September 24, at 2:30 p.m.
On the other side, Arellano’s Maverick Vinoya set a new career-high with 22 points, leading his team. Valencia added 18 points, five assists, and six rebounds in a strong effort.
Arellano aims to secure its first win against the San Sebastian College-Recoletos on Sunday, September 22, at 12:00 p.m.
The Scores:
Lyceum 90 – Barba 25, Montaño 17, Guadaña 12, Peñafiel 11, Villegas 10, Daileg 8, Cunanan 3, Pallingayan 2, Aviles 2, Moralejo 0, Cunanay 0, Colian 0, Panelo 0, Gordon 0
Arellano 86 – Vinoya 22, Valencia 18, Ongotan 13, Miller 11, Geronimo 10, Libang 4, Borromeo 2, Camay 2, Hernal 2, Capulong 1, Estacio 1, Acop 0, Abiera 0, Espiritu 0
Quarterscores: 27-19, 45-44, 57-63, 79-79, 90-86.
