Mapua University has officially secured a spot in the Final Four of the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball tournament, with rookie guard Lawrence Mangubat playing a pivotal role in this achievement.
Mangubat showcased his potential with a timely 16-point performance on Tuesday, helping the Cardinals extend their five-game winning streak as they head deeper into the elimination rounds. The rookie delivered in high-stakes moments, leading Mapua to a 69-68 escape against Lyceum of the Philippines.
His clutch performance earned him the Collegiate Press Corps NCAA Player of the Week honor, an award backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, with Discovery Suites and World Balance as minor sponsors for the period of October 22 to 30.
In the final 30 seconds of the game, Mangubat executed a personal five-point swing to secure the win.
He hit a difficult long two-pointer from the corner, tying the game at 66, before sinking a three-point dagger that sealed Mapua’s entry into the semifinals.
Over 14 games, the former Cebu Institute of Technology – University standout has contributed significantly, averaging 9.36 points, 3.93 rebounds, and 1.93 assists in his impressive first season.
Drawing strength and confidence from his coaches and teammates, Mangubat has consistently proven himself in crucial moments.
“Unang-una sa lahat, nagpapasalamat kami kay God kasi binigyan niya kami ng panalo. Also, si Coach Randy [Alcantara] kasi binigay niya sa akin ‘yung tiwala sa last shot saka galing din ako sa shot from the corner,” Mangubat said.
“Para sa akin talaga ‘yung last play, last option na talaga. Pero sina Cyrus [Cuenco] and Clint [Escamis] nandiyan rin. Timing lang talaga at good pass si Clint sa akin,” he added.
The 5-foot-10 Mangubat edged out De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Allen Liwag, San Beda University’s James Payosing, and Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Harvey Pagsanjan for the weekly honor, which was decided by a panel of sports journalists covering the collegiate beat.
