Coming off an embarrassing opening-day loss to San Beda University, College of Saint Benilde bounced back in emphatic fashion, venting its ire on Emilio Aguinaldo College, 74-63, to secure its first win in the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball Tournament’s Group A, Saturday at the Filoil Centre.
The Blazers, considered one of the tournament favorites, were humbled by the Red Lions last Wednesday, 96-85.
In a show of unity, the Blazers entered Saturday’s game with shaven heads, a statement that they intend to stick together through thick and thin this season.
“We lost to San Beda because we didn’t play well at all. I kept telling them we had to play our A-Game, which we didn’t,” said Blazers head coach Charles Tiu.
“We wanted to be angry that we lost… I’m happy that the guys had the intensity today. They were a bit more focused today.”
Justine Sanchez once again spearheaded Benilde’s attack with 16 points, highlighted by four three-pointers. Meanwhile, Allen Liwag showcased his MVP form with 14 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks.
The backcourt duo of Gab Cometa and Ian Torres chipped in 13 points and six assists combined. They helped fill the void left by lead guard Tony Ynot, who remains sidelined with an ankle injury.
Benilde will look to build momentum when it faces the Letran Knights on Wednesday.
For the Generals, Jude Bagay and Wilmar Oftana posted 15 and 10 points, respectively. Rookie EJ Castillo made an impressive debut with eight points, six rebounds, and a steal.
EAC aims to recover when it takes on the JRU Heavy Bombers on Tuesday.
The Scores:
Benilde 74 – Sanchez 16, Liwag 14, Cometa 9, Torres 7, Umali 6, Moore 6, Celis 5, Ancheta 4, Gaspay 2, Morales 2, Cajucom 2, Eusebio 1, Oli 0, Daja 0, Galas 0.
Emilio Aguinaldo 63 – Bagay 15, Oftana 10, Castillo 8, Angeles 8, Loristo 6, Ochavo 4, Postanes 4, Shanoda 3, Villarente 3, Lucero 2, Tolentino 0, Dominguez 0, Omandac 0, Quinal 0, Bacud 0.
Quarterscores: 22-17, 37-32, 57-46, 74-63.
