De La Salle University withstood the absence of its head coach Derrick Pumaren to overcome San Beda University 61-53 in the 15th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup, Sunday night, in San Juan.
Down 17-23 in the half, the Green Archers turned things around in the third quarter when CJ Austria’s drive gave La Salle a 39-28 cushion with 1:56 remaining in the period.
However, the Red Lions came roaring back in the final frame. A JV Gallego three capped off a 17-5 run to give the Red Lions a 45-44 edge with 7:04 left in the game.
Austria then sealed the win with a breakaway lay-up with 53 seconds remaining to give La Salle a 61-53 victory.
San Beda (0-1) will go up against Far Eastern University on Wednesday at 1:00 PM. On the other hand, La Salle (2-0) will return to action against Jose Rizal University on Sunday at 3:00 PM.
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The entire 2022 Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup will stream LIVE on Smart Sports Facebook page
