Games Wednesday (Filoil EcoOil Arena)
11 a.m.- LPU vs CSB
2:30 p.m.- EAC vs JRU
Vince Cuajao and Jimboy Estrada took turns in the clutch as Letran repulsed a stubborn San Sebastian College, 101-98, in double overtime on Tuesday and reclaimed solo fourth spot in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
Cuajao erupted for seven triples and a game-best 34 points, while Estrada exploded with 30 points on his return from a one-game suspension as the Knights jumped back to No. 4 with a 7-6 record.
College of St. Benilde and Mapua continued to remain unshakeable in the top two with a 10-2 and 10-3 card, respectively, while defending champion San Beda is perched at No. 3 with an 8-5 record.
The triumph was made more special by the fact that Letran finally found a way to end an alarming three-game slide after a solid start to its campaign.
It was actually the Knights’ first win in the second round and they hope this one could spark something massive late in the round and complete a return trip to the Final Four after disappointingly missing it a season ago.
The sweet-shooting Cuajao’s guns went ablaze in the first OT when he sizzled with nine points while Estrada took charge in the second extra time when he scored five points that helped seal the deal.
It was an important triumph for Letran as it repossessed No. 4 after sharing it with Lyceum of the Philippines University and Emilio Aguinaldo College, each with even 6-6 marks, entering the duel.
The Stags, who were led by Rafael Are’s 27-point effort, had all the chances to snare the win but just couldn’t cash in on those chances and fell deeper in the quagmire they’re in with a 3-10 slate.
Meanwhile, Arellano University shut down University of Perpetual Help in the fourth quarter as it sneaked in a 66-59 triumph.
Trailing by 10 points, 55-45, late in the third period, the Chiefs found a way to slow down the Altas, whom the former held to just four points the rest of the way to snatch their fifth win against eight defeats.
AU joined UPHSD at No. 7 while lighting up its flickering Final Four hopes.
