RJ Tadeo delivered another impressive all-around performance as Manila Central University secured its first consecutive victories, defeating Guang Ming College of Tagaytay 76-60 in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 on Monday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Following his outstanding 16-point contribution in the team’s surprising 74-61 triumph over last year’s runner-up, Olivarez College, last Thursday, Tadeo contributed 15 points, with the majority coming in the second quarter. The Supremos outscored the Flying Dragons 22-12, establishing a 50-36 halftime lead.
Building on their momentum, the Supremos extended their lead to as much as 22 points, reaching 72-50 with 6:25 remaining, essentially sealing the outcome of their Group B match.
In the lone Group A encounter, the league-leading Philippine Christian University-Dasmariñas improved its record to 8-1 by defeating the University of Batangas (5-4) with a score of 78-70.
The top two finishers in Group A (1st to 4th placers after the first round) will secure twice-to-beat advantages in the knockout quarterfinal round.
Tadeo, with five assists and the same number of rebounds, showcased MCU’s strong start to the second phase of the elimination round for 5th to 9th placers.
Four other MCU players, including Seanne Devon General, scored in double figures as the Supremos dominated the match from the start, elevating their record to 4-5.
GMC, aiming to improve its position heading into the quarters, fell to 3-6.
General contributed a game-high 16 points, Jan Prieto Hilao posted 13 points and 9 boards, and foreign student-athlete Bi Tizie Yannick Dje recorded 11 points and 11 rebounds.
