San Beda University’s quest for a Final Four spot in the NCAA Season 100 seniors’ basketball tournament gained momentum last week, thanks to athletic forward Jomel Puno.
The Filipino-Canadian standout showcased a heightened sense of urgency, especially after receiving the green light from his coaches to play more aggressively as the first round of eliminations approaches its end.
Puno’s efforts in leading the Red Lions to a 2-0 stretch earned him the Collegiate Press Corps NCAA Player of the Week award, backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, with Discovery Suites and World Balance as minor sponsors for the period of October 1-5.
In Tuesday’s highly anticipated match-up, Puno played a pivotal role in helping San Beda secure a thrilling victory over their archrivals, Colegio de San Juan de Letran.
He delivered a stellar double-double performance, scoring a career-high 22 points and grabbing 10 rebounds – all while leading the Red Lions to a dramatic 66-64 win over the Knights.
Just days later, Puno once again took charge, guiding the Red Lions to a narrow 63-62 victory over Perpetual Help on Saturday.
He posted 16 points and eight rebounds while shooting an impressive 45.5-percent from the field.
“Throughout last season and the start of this season, I felt like I was too laid back, playing more of a supporting role,” Puno said after the game. “After I got the go signal from my coaches and teammates, I tried to do my best, which I haven’t been able to show for a while.”
During his standout week, where he averaged 19 points, nine rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, San Beda improved to a 5-3 win-loss record, temporarily securing the solo fourth seed.
Puno edged out other top performers such as Jose Rizal University’s Joshua Guiab, Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s Jimboy Estrada, and reigning Most Valuable Player Clint Escamis of Mapua for the weekly honor, which is awarded by collegiate sports reporters.
