By: Miguel Caramoan
The one-two punch of Janti Miller and Bryan Sajonia powered San Beda University to a dominant 91-72 victory over the College of Saint Benilde in Game 1 of the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball semifinals.
Miller delivered a monster performance with 29 points and nine rebounds on an efficient 58.8% shooting clip. Meanwhile, Sajonia set the tone early and closed the doors late, finishing with 26 points, five rebounds, and three assists, highlighted by a 5-of-8 showing from long range.
With the win, the Red Lions continued their mastery over the Blazers, taking their third victory in as many meetings this season. They now look to complete the sweep and earn redemption for their Season 100 Final Four exit when they return to action on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Sajonia once again jumpstarted San Beda’s offense, scoring 10 early points to help the Red Lions secure a 22-19 lead after the opening quarter, despite allowing nine offensive rebounds to Benilde.
San Beda’s firepower grew even stronger in the second period, with Miller, Yukien Andrada, and Nygel Gonzales combining for 20 of the team’s 26 points to build a 48-37 halftime cushion.
The Red Lions pushed the lead to as high as 17, 56-39, early in the third quarter thanks to a Sajonia basket. But the Blazers fought back, trimming the deficit to 63-53 after a Tony Ynot field goal with 1:28 left in the frame.
However, Sajonia slammed the door shut in the fourth, erupting for 11 straight points to give San Beda an imposing 76-55 advantage with 7:38 remaining — effectively sealing the win.
San Beda’s outside shooting proved pivotal as they drilled 12 three-pointers on a 42.9% clip, dwarfing Benilde’s cold 4-of-24 showing from deep.
Ian Torres led the Blazers with 18 points, while Shawn Umali chipped in 13 in the losing effort.
