Daniel Marcelo ignited in the third quarter and defending champion Centro Escolar University outlasted Olivarez College 74-64 to secure the top spot in the quarters of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 on Thursday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
After a subdued performance in the first two quarters that resulted in a 37-all tie, the sharp-shooting guard suddenly exploded, scoring 13 of his 20 points as the Scorpions outscored the Sea Lions 24-14 to take a 61-51 advantage.
They encountered no further troubles as they applied more defensive pressure to keep the Sea Lions at bay, finishing the second phase of eliminations with a 9-2 record.
This earned them one of the two bonuses offered in their group.
The other bonus went to Philippine Christian University-Dasmariñas, which secured the second spot with an 8-3 record, while Olivarez settled for third place at 7-4.
Olivarez will face the No. 6 team in the knockout quarterfinals next week.
Meanwhile, two-time champion Diliman College strengthened its bid for the No. 5 spot with a 69-63 victory over Guang Ming College-Tagaytay.
This victory was courtesy of Robbi Marion Darang and Axl Ross Taporco, who contributed 25 and 24 points, respectively.
Diliman College improved to a 6-5 record, while the Flying Dragons closed out with a 4-8 mark.
Marcelo, who also recorded 4 rebounds and one assist, received solid support from Abdul-Wahab Olusesi, who narrowly missed a double-double with 13 points and 9 boards.
Also posting significant numbers were Franz Diaz with 9 points, 8 assists, and 3 boards, and Dylan Darbin, who added 7 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists.
