Monsour Proel delivered a stellar performance, scoring 13 of his 27 points in the second quarter to power Olivarez College past defending champion Centro Escolar University, 86-76, and claim the solo lead in the UCAL-PGFlex Linoleum 7th Season on Monday at Paco Arena in Manila.
The Sealions found themselves trailing the Scorpions, 18-11, at the end of the first quarter, but Proel ignited an early offensive surge in the second frame. His efforts helped Olivarez seize the lead, 28-26, after a clutch three-pointer from John Escalante.
Relentless in their attack, the Parañaque-based squad extended their lead to as much as 17 points in the third quarter, with their starters stepping up to sustain their momentum.
The victory marked their fourth consecutive win, improving their record to 6-1.
The Sealions’ rise to the top was further cemented after Immaculada Concepcion College stunned Manila Central University, 81-78, behind the late-game heroics of Jared Loi Vento.
With MCU mounting a furious comeback, Vento remained composed, scoring the Bluehawks’ final four points to seal the victory. Alfred Joseph Flores led ICC with 24 points, while Vento added 16 as their team improved to 3-4.
Meanwhile, MCU slipped to 5-2, now tied with University of Batangas and Philippine Christian University-Dasmariñas.
Olivarez’s victory was a collective effort, as three other starters contributed double-digit scoring.
Rodel Renon added 16 points, while Escalante and Hakim Njiasse chipped in 12 and 11 points, respectively, snapping CEU’s three-game winning streak.
Gabrielle Dan Gamboa and Kem Sabsalon scored 18 points each for CEU, but their efforts fell short as the Scorpions dropped to 3-4 in this tournament is supported by Akari, CafeFrance, Advance Solutions Inc., Smart Sports, Spalding, Team Rebel Sports, Quintana Sports, Crane Faucet, Hapee Toothpaste, Jiang Nan Restaurant, Vital, Top Flite Academy, Maruyama, and Gerry’s Grill.
