Lyceum of the Philippines-Batangas secured its first win with a 94-75 victory over the Philippine Women’s University on Saturday, January 27, in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 at the Paco Arena in Manila.
After a tight contest in the opening quarter, the Pirates of Batangas outscored the Patriots 28-14 in the next frame, enjoying a 49-36 lead at the break.
They then sustained that lead to finally secure a win after dropping their first two games in the tournament, also supported by Angel’s Pizza.
The Patriots attempted a last-ditch comeback, but the Pirates were not to be denied this time – thanks to the troika of David Jose, Bhencent Butuyan, and Alpha Bah, who made timely baskets.
Jose put on a double-double performance with 23 points and 14 boards, while Butuyan and Bah scored 18 points and combined for 7 boards.
Together, they handed the Patriots their fourth straight defeat.
In the other game, Philippine Christian University-Dasmariñas rolled to its third win in as many games by defeating Guang Ming College-Tagaytay City, 92-69.
Taking the solo lead in the 9-team league, the Dolphins used a well-balanced attack to secure a commanding 47-30 lead at halftime.
Gaiel Escultur led four PCU-D players in double figures with 20 points and 6 boards, while Ngufor Toscannie logged 18 points and 8 rebounds.
Adrian Reves had 14 points and 14 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Olivarez College gained extra motivation for its showdown with CEU on Monday by defeating the University of Batangas, 90-81, last Thursday.
The CEU Scorpions beat the Olivarez SEA Lions in their best-of-three title series, 2-0, completing a 14-game sweep of the tournament. This feat enabled them to tie Diliman College for the most number of titles with two each.
Both CEU and Olivarez have similar 2-0 records.
