University of Perpetual Help System DALTA outlasted San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 86-74, in the NCAA Season 102 Seniors Basketball Tournament on Monday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
With the victory, the Altas improved to 2-1 and remained in third place in Group B.
Looking to bounce back from their first two losses, the Stags kept pace with Perpetual throughout the first half and even built a five-point lead, 35-30, with 3:35 remaining in the second quarter.
However, the Altas quickly responded and entered halftime with a slim 43-41 advantage.
San Sebastian continued to threaten in the third quarter, with Niel Castor leading the charge. But JM Tulabut’s three-pointer helped Perpetual regain the lead, 59-58, heading into the final frame.
The Altas opened the fourth quarter with a 6-0 run in the first two minutes, only for the Stags to answer with an 8-0 blitz that put them back in front, 66-65.
Jim Corpuz and Tulabut then sparked another Perpetual surge, giving the Altas a 73-70 lead with 3:54 remaining.
Although Arwin Alforque converted a layup to keep San Sebastian within striking distance, Perpetual took control from there, closing the game with a 13-2 run to secure the victory.
The Stags, meanwhile, remained in search of their first win of the season and fell to 0-3 in Group B.
The Altas will face Arellano University on Friday at 3:00 p.m. at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig, while the Stags will have a week to regroup before taking on Emilio Aguinaldo College next Tuesday, September 29, at 3:00 p.m. at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
