By: Miguel Caramoan
Colegio de San Juan de Letran pulled off a thrilling comeback, erasing a 13-point second-half deficit to edge out University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, 72-70, and punch their ticket to the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball Finals on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The victory marks Letran’s return to the championship stage for the first time since Season 98 as they chase their 21st NCAA crown.
Jonathan Manalili spearheaded the Knights with another impressive double-double, tallying 16 points and 14 assists. His backcourt partner, Jimboy Estrada, chipped in 11 points and four steals, including a clutch three-pointer that put Letran ahead 72-70 with 1:41 left on the clock.
Letran will now await the winner of the Game 3 rubber match between the San Beda Red Lions and Benilde Blazers on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with the finals tipping off on December 10 at the same venue.
