NCAA Season 91: The best games of Lee Ian Salazar and the Lyceum Junior Pirates

Team Standings as of Aug. 28, 2015

W      L

SBC Red Cubs               11      0

MIT Red Robins            9        1

LPU Junior Pirates                  7        3

AU Braves                     7        3

LSGH Greenies              5        5

EAC Junior Generals     5        6

CSJL Squires                 4        7

SSC-R Staglets               3        8

JRU Light Bombers       1        9

UPHSD Junior Altas     0        10

Tenth grader Lee Ian Salazar played the best game of his young playing career in the 91^st National Collegiat Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament last Aug. 28, Friday at the Arena in San Juan.

The five-foot-nine Salazar shot 27 points in leading the Lyceum Junior Pirates to a 78-49 demolition of the San Sebastian Staglets.

(Lee Ian Salazar(14), tightly guarded by Staglet Shareef Saliddin, passes the ball to  McLaude Guadana (16)).

The first time Salazar  showed his best was when he knocked in 19 point in stopping the Staglets, 88-82, last Aug. 7 in the first round.

Salazar was with the Staglets three years ago, and his best game this season was his way of showing the Junior Pirates that he’s got what it takes to help the team make it to the Final Four this year.

(LPU coach LA Mumar in a huddle with members of the Junior Pirates).

With their seventh win in 10 games, the Junior Pirates found themselves sharing third place with the Arellano University Braves.

And this gave the Junior Pirates their best performance in four years, and after coming aboard in the league in 2011.

(Members of the SSC Staglets, Patrick Daabay (12), Kobe Canoy (14), Jerico Isidro (13) and John Adams(16) block the path of Mclaude Guadana (with ball) and teammate Generoso Cecilio (17)).

Salazar said he had quite a journey, and as he found his way back into the league that he used to play in.

“Natanggal po ako nung nagbawas sila ng scholarship (San Sebastian),” said Salazar as he looked back.

(Generoso Cecilio).

After that Salazar went to Porac, Pampanga to study in Pulong Santol High School.

A year later in 2014, an open tryouts in LPU was called. The next thing he knew, he joined the tryouts and got accepted.

(Marcus Arellano).

A year later, Salazar is now one of the Junior Pirates mainstays who are sweating it out in their bid to have a better campaign this year.

As it turned out, Salazar was on fire in their first second round game.

(Mclaude Guadana goes for a jumper, while Donyel Udal (6) moves into position).

He had seven triples, making two of them in the first period.

As Salazar scored 10 points in the first 10 minutes, the Junior Pirates went on to take a 26-9 lead in the first quarter.

(Cecilio (17) dribbles with (10) Makki Santos providing a screen, while Staglets Patrick Daabay (12) and Shareef Saliddin (6) give chase).

In the second period, it was his back-to-back treys towards the end which handed LPU a 24-point, 46-22 spread.

In this game, I took note that Salazar gives his best when the Staglets are their opponents.

(Vincent Cunanan goes for a clutch shot past Canoy (14) and Daabay (12)).

As I looked at the stats sheets, it showed that he averages 8.2 points and 1.4 rebounds.

And so, his performance in this game, I can say, is beyond the charts.

“Parehas na Baste ang kalaban namin nung ako ay nag best game,” remarked Salazar.

So, going into the third period, defense made an effort to limit the Staglets to 11 points.

They took a 28-point spread, thanks to a drive from Vincent Cunanan, who banged in 11 total points.

In the fourth, the Junior Pirates increased their lead to 29, 69-38, off another three-pointer from Salazar.

In the end, the Junior Pirates connected eight of 24 three-pointers, while the Staglets had 3 of 12 reaching their targets.

“Hard work lang lagi. Sabi coach (LA Mumar), gawin ko ang tama. Mag-focus lang sa ginagawa ko,” added Salazar.

So far, Cunanan hit 11 points and eight rebounds, teammates Donyel Udal and Kobe Camacho also took charge under the boards.

Udal had eight points and nine rebounds, and Camacho made seven points and hauled down nine boards.

The scores:

LPU 78– Salazar 27, Cunanan 11, Santos 9, Udal 8, Cecilio 8, Camacho 7, Guadana 4, Wong 2, Umpad 2, Castaneda 0, Laureno 0, Sabido 0, Glipo 0.

San Sebastian 49—Daabay 20, Arellano 6, Adams 4, Tamparong 3, Pelias 3, Pacis 2, Agbong 2, Jabagat 2, Isidro 2, Canoy 2, Sisa 0, Cuntapay 0, Dantis 0, Zulueta 0.

Quarterscores: 26-9, 46-22, 59-33, 78-49.

NCAA Season 91: Arellano Braves, Carlo Abadeza and his teammates prevail over over SSC Staglets

24 July 2015,

Friday,

8 p.m.

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

Carlo Abadeza was having a bad day last Friday, July 24.

The 6’4 forward of the Arellano University Braves was struggling with his rebounds

And so was Lars Sunga, another rebounder of the Braves.

(Carlo Abadeza harasses  dribbling Staglet Kobe Canoy(in pink Nike shoes)).

But their situation did not keep the Braves from putting away the San Sebastian Staglets, 82-64, in their evening encounter at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

“Nahirapan ako sa mga big ng Baste. Mabibigat,” said Abadeza after the Braves posted their fourth win in five outings in the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association junior basketball tournament.

• Arellano Braves 82, San Sebastian Staglets 64

Normally, Abadeza would average 14.2 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal and 1.2 blocks.

(Arellano ace Guilmer de la Torre tries to get past Staglet Niko Sisa).

“Struggle ako sa rebounds. Pero nila ko pa rin ang game ko. Hindi ko na lang pinabayaan ma-frustrate ako,” said the 18-year transferee from La Salle Greenhills.

Abadeza finished the 30 minutes that he was on the floor with 12 points and nine rebounds.

He provided big support to top scorer Guilmer de la Torre, who led with 15 points and five rebounds.

(Ira Bataller shoots a free throw while Staglet Niko Sisa watches).

Overall, four key members of the Braves, including de la Torre, Lars Sunga and Ira Bataller were struggling with their game that day.

But, determination, team effort and support from other teammates allowed the Braves to hang on to second place, sharing the same 4-1 win-loss record with the Mapua Red Robins.

The Staglets stayed close in the second period, 14-18, off baskets from Nikko Sisa and JoeVance Agbong when things turned around.

(Jovito Tamayo (left) gets screened by Staglet Patrick Daabay).

Jovito Tamayo hit one of two triples during the last five minutes of the second half, and this provided enough to build up a 37-22 halftime lead.

De la Torre hit one of his two treys in the last 8:55 of the third period, allowing the Braves to grab a 14-point spread, 40-26.

Bataller added another one in the 3:13 of the third, and the Braves got a 17-point, 53-36 spread from that.

(Point guard Nino Tamayo signals a play to teammates, while Staglet Marcus Arellano moves into a defensive position).

The scores:

First game

Mapua 88–  Concepcion 26, Salenga 15, Enriquez 13, Garcia 10, Velvez 7, Yco 7, Bonifacio 6,  Badillo 2, Uson 2, Templonuevo 0, Camillosa 0.

EAC-ICA 80– Castillo 22, Beduria 19, Cruz 14, Dularte 12, Calara 4, Anonuevo 4, Baliquig 3, Boado 1, Kwong 1, Mostoles 0.

Quarterscores: 22-19, 45-48, 67-59, 88-80.

Second game

Lyceum 81—Jungco 21, Cecilio 18, Guadana 14, Cunanan 11, Udal 7, Santos 6, Laureno 2, Wong 2, Camacho 0, Salazar 0.

JRU 73—Torre 29, Tierra 15, Baliad 11, Sta. Maria 8, Agustin 5, Carreon 3, Sicat 2, Macompas 0, Tan 0.

Quarterscores: 18-14, 35-32, 63-53, 81-73.

Third game

Arellano 82—de la Torre 15, Abadeza 12, Bataller 11, Tamayo 9, Espiritu 9, Danas 9, Velasco 6, Calapine 4, Sunga 3, Canete 3, Fornis 1, Torrejos 0, Bontao 0, de Leon 0, Dularte 0.

San Sebastian 64—Daabay 14, Agbong 13, Canoy 9, Tamparong 7, Pacis 5, Saliddin 5, Cuntapay 4, Sisa 3, Pelias 3, Arellano 2, Jabagat 0, Adams 0, Dantis 0, Zulueta 0.

Quarterscores: 16-12, 37-22, 59-44, 82-64.

NCAA Season 91: Shareef Saliddin wins it for the San Sebastian Staglets

21 July 2015,

Tuesday,

2 p.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan,

When Shareef Saliddin scored three crucial charities at endgame, he became an unexpected her for the San Sebastian Staglets that afternoon.

His freebies allowed the San Sebastian Staglets to turn the tables on the Letran Squires, 75-71, in their game last Tuesday, July 21, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

And with Kobe Canoy making 15 points,  the  Staglets,  improved their win-loss card in the junior division of the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament.

(Shareef Saliddin is shown here shooting his free throws).

This put the Staglets in second spot with their 3-1 win-loss record.

Shareef’s heroics came hours after the San Beda Red Cubs drew 17 points apiece from Eduardo Velasquez and Pedro Alfaro.

“Nung first half po, kagulo kami kasi kabado kami. Yung kabilang team, tough team sila,” said the 17-year old Shareef as recalled his experience after the game.

(Kobe Canoy (14)looks for an open man while players from the Letran Squires prepare to defend).

Not much is expected for Shareef in this game since most of the point production of the team goes to Kobe Canoy and Dranreb Tamparong.

Just like in this game.

But this time, Shareef made a difference.

(Patrick Daabay (left) barrels his way past Letran’s Jovito Tamayo).

That’s because, the Squires were leading for the first three quarters.

They were in charge until a triple from Tamparong and a layup from Patrick Daabay in the last seven put the Staglets in front, 63-60.

The Squires were able to move back in front, 65-64, of Jayric Villanueva’s two charities, and that was the last time Letran took the lead.

(Dranreb Tamparong (left) tries to defend while Letran’s Jayric Villanueva goes for a jumper).

A triple from Canoy and Daabay’s split put the Staglets back in front, 68-65.

As the Squires tied the match, 68-all, off Canoy’s layup and Elton Villanueva’s charity, foul trouble caught up them.

Tamparong scored on a jumper off Canoy’s feed to break the deadlock.

(Joevance Agbong grabs the loose ballwhile Letran’s Louis Montes and and SSC’s Jerico Isidro gets into position).

They managed to stay in front after Letran’s Jayric scored one of two freebies, 69-70, with a minute to go.

In the remaining 45.4 seconds, it was Saluddin’s show as he got repeatedly fouled by Marcus Arellano and Gabrielle Diaz. and he sank five of seven charities in the remaining time.

The last three came in the final 16.7 seconds.

(Letran’s Louis Montes).

They proved to be the most important points for the Staglets.

That’s because the free throws found their mark, right after Chedric Zulueta put the Recoletos boys within range, 71-72, off his two freebies.

“Buti na lang, nabawi namin ang errors namin,” said Shareef.

Coach Franco Atienza said the Staglets are lucky to escape with the win, considering the number of turnovers the team gave up, which is 42.

“No teams wins with 42 turnovers. Not with these many turnovers. We are just lucky,” said Atienza.

On the other hand, those points from Velasquez and Alfaro helped the Red Cubs swamp the the Lyceum Junior Pirates, 91-81.

This gave the Red Cubs their fourth straight triumph.

As for the Staglets, they are behind the unbeaten Red Cubs in the standings.

And so are the Mapua Red Robins and the Arellano University Braves, who are in a three-way tie with the Staglets(As of July 21,2015).

The scores:

First game

San Beda 91—Velasquez 17, Alfaro 17, Abuhijle 10, Tagala 9, Sese 9, Bordeus 8, Lagumen 8, Mahinay 6, Etrata 5, de la Rosa 2, Nelle 0.

Lyceum 81 — Jungco 16, Camacho 15, Santos 12, Guadana 11, Cecilio 11, Cunanan 10, Salazar 6, Castaneda 0, Udal 0, Wong 0, Umpad 0.

Quarterscores: 24-15, 44-41, 72-58, 91-81.

Second game

San Sebastian 75 – Canoy 15, Tamparong 14, Saliddin 13, Daabay 10, Zulueta 6, Pacis 4, Agbong 4, Isidro 4, Sisa 2, Adams 2, Cuntapay 1, Arellano 0, Jabagat 0, Pelias 0.

Letran 71- E. Villanueva 14, J. Villanueva 12, Cordero 12, Villarete 6, Sabile , Felomino 5, David 5, Tamayo 4, Caalaman 2, Maneze 2, Montes 2, Diaz 1, Castro 0.

Quarterscores: 11-22, 35-39, 52-55, 75-71.

NCAA Season 91: Arellano Braves and Guilmer’s exciting games

14 July 2015,

Tuesday,

12 nn,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

Guilmer de la Torre is excited these days.

His three pointers are finding their mark.

There are two games, which are helping build not only confidence, but the fighting spirit of his teammates as well.

(Guilmer de la Torre defends the ball from harassing Pirate Chester Jungco).

Just like when he topscored for 21 points last July 3, Friday.

And, also when he hit 33 points last July 14 for the Braves when they turned back the Emilio Agunaldo College-ICA Brigadiers, 104-98.

-Arellano Braves 97, Lyceum 88

His big baskets included a crucial triple at endgame to power the Arellano Braves to 97-88 triumph over the Lyceum Pirates, in the junior division of the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball tournament.

(Carlo Abadeza (8) tries to make his way past two Pirate defenders. One of them is Maki Santos (10)).

This helped hand the Braves their second straight win.

At that time, they have joined the San Beda Red Cubs in the lead.

“Iyung tres, sa dulo na pumasok. Ganun talaga. Wala tayo magawa,” said the five-foot-nine de la Torre.

(Lars Sunga goes for a jumper past Resty Fornis).

The Junior Pirates were close in the fourth quarter, and after Vincent Cunanan penetrated and tied the match, 84-all.

That was when Jayson Danas and de la Torre came into the picture, and strung up a pair of treys with 5:02 left, 90-84.

After de la Torres drove in with 2:13 left, the Braves were able to move safely ahead, 92-84.

(The Braves singing their anthem).

“Para sa team ito. Pinupulikat na rin ako. Nahirapan na ako, nanlalambot na ako,” said de la Torre of his condition at that time.

Teammates Lars Sunga and Carlo Abadeza added 21 and 13 for the Braves.

• Arellano Braves 104, EAC-ICA 98

In this game, Guilmer de la Torre came up with another great showing, shooting 33 points to lead the Arellano Braves to a 104-98  beating of the EAC-ICA Brigadiers.

De la Torre fired 13 points in the last period.

This  included three treys, which helped the Braves get away with their third straight win.

Because of this, the Braves have move ahead of two unbeaten squads, the San Beda Red Cubs and the Letran Squires.

The scores:

July 03 game

Arellano 97– de la Torre 24, Sunga 21, Abadeza 13, Velasco 9, Dularte 9, Danas 6, Fornis 6, Tamayo 5, Espiritu 2, Bataller 1, Calapine 0, Bontao 0.

LPU 88—Generoso 22, Guadana 16, Camacho 14, Jungco 11, Salazar 8, Umpad 7, Cunanan 5, Santos 3, Laureno 2, Udal 0, Wong 0.

Quarterscores: 26-20, 51-40, 73-65, 97-88.

July 14 game

Arellano 104—de la Torre 33, Abadeza 18, Sunga 13, Fornis 12, Dulatre 11, Danas 5, Calapine 4, de Leon 4, Velasco 2, Espiritu 2, Tamayo 0, Bontao 0, Canete 0.

EAC-ICA 98—Cruz 29, Castillo 21, Beduria 14, Dularte 13, Boado 8, Anonuevo 6, Calara 5, Mostoles 2, Baliquig 0, Kwong 0, Tanque 0.

Quarterscores: 26-all, 53-42, 76-69, 104-98.

NCAA Season 91: Alain Madrigal’s time to shine for the LSGH Greenies

07 July 2015,

Tuesday,

10 a.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

This happened some two days before the management committee of season 91 National Collegiate Athletic Association began postponing its scheduled basketball games Thursday and Friday due to inclement weather.

The La Salle Greenhills Greenies found out what its like to play without one of its top playmakers Ricci Rivero.

Veteran Alain Madrigal stepped up in the absence of the suspended  Rivero, drilling in 29 points for La Salle Greenhills when they prevailed over the Emilio Aguinaldo College-Immaculate Conception Academy Brigadiers, 72-61.

(Alain Madrigal watches the ball during a rebound play).

It turned out to be his best game of the season, so far.

This is because this is Madrigal’s highest output in three games.

He averages 17 points, 7.33 rebounds and 1.33 blocks, and this makes him the second best performer in the LSGH roster.

(John Mallillin going for a jumper).

Madrigal, who also hauled in 12 rebounds,  was tasked to take care of Rivero’s position after Ricci got sanctioned for one-game.

When I see him play, I am reminded of what Michael de la Cruz used to do for the team when he was still around. Well, de la Cruz is no longer around. He is hoping to find his spot with the Enderun College Titans, if any not with any UAAP-member school.

Anyway, Rivero incurred a one-game suspension following disqualifying foul in their encounter with the University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas on July 4.

(Ricci Rivero going for a free throw shot).

Madrigal poured in 12 points in the first canto to help the Greenies establish an 18-8 spread.

He made eight points in the second period, and this included 2 triples, which alloewed the LSGH to move away by 23 points at halftime.

Ian Herrera went on to help Madrigal control the boards with eight points and 13 rebounds.

(Rodney Manuel evading a defender from the opposing team).

And with both of them coming up with an intimidating presence under the boards, LSGH went on to post a 41-18 halftime advantage.

LSGH is now tied for third with the Mapua Red Robins with two wins and a loss.

Before their game with the Brigadiers, coach John Flores told members of the team that they should affected the physicality and emotion of the game.

(EAC-ICA Brigadiers scoring ace Mark Castillo).

This is what led the Rivero’s suspension following their game with the Junior Altas.

Ricci is supposed to return to action this Friday when the Greenies meet the Lyceum Junior Pirates.

But, because of heavy rains expected in the next two days, the Greenies will now have to be ready when the meet the Lyceum Junior Pirates on Thursday.

The scores:

LSGH 72– Madrigal 28, Herrera 8, Mallillin 8, Lanot 8, Manuel 6, Pedrosa 6, Pagulayan 5, Joven 2, Ollano 0, Lepalam 0,Velasco 0, Boo 0,Magpantay 0.

EAC-ICA 61– Castillo 34, Beduria 10, Ligot 6, Boado 5,  Kwong 4, Calara 4, Cruz 2, Baliquig 2, Tanque 0, Matilde 0, Tapales 0, Mostoles 0, Anonuevo 0.

Quartercores: 18-8, 41-18, 64-36, 72-61.

NCAA Season 91: Keifer Cordero rises for the Letran Squires

03 July 2015,

Friday,

8 p.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

The Letran Squires introduced Keifer Van Avery Cordero when they smashed the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers, 92-54.

Cordero is among a group of newcomers playing for the first time in season 91 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association junior basketball tournament.

He and 11 other teammates  spent two years in Team B.

(Keifer Cordero about to shoot a free throw. In background is teammate Gabrielle Diaz (8) and JRU’s Kyle Tierra).

On his second game with the Squires,  Keifer made a gamehigh 23 points to lead his team to their second straight win when action ended on Friday, July 2, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

“This is our first official win. Iyung forfeited, we don’t count as official win of the team, Nanalo kami sa ballgame this time. We practiced hard on our offense. We adjusted a lot. Gusto naming maging aggressive ang team sa defense,” said Squires coach Raymund Tiongco.

The Squires earlier absorbed a 49-88 loss to La Salle Greenhills in their opening game, and that was last June 30, Monday.

(Rhayniel David (14) in a possession battle with JRU’s John Sta. Maria).

In that game, which was placed under protest, Cordero made nine points during the 30 minutes he saw action.

But, a day after that win,  the NCAA Management Committee chaired by Melchor Divina of Mapua upheld the recommendation of commissioner Arturo “Bai” Cristobal to the La Salle-Greenhills victory.

Letran officials noted during the game that there was violation after LSGH players showed up with uniforms which violated a league rule limiting players to Nos. 4 to 19.

(Diaz with ball tries to get past JRU defender Luis Carreon).

LSGH’s Jesmar Pedrosa, Alain Madrigal and Ladis Lepalam wore nos. 20, 28 and 27, respectively.

With the forfeiture, the Squires were awarded the win.

Going back to Kiefer, Tiongco describes him as “a good kid. He’s a listener. He’s a follower and hard working.”

(Ryan Felomino about to make an attempt).

The 17-year old Cordero has 2 years developing his skills while with Team B Squires.

In the first quarter, Jovito Tamayo shot 7 of 19 points as the Squires to a 19-11 lead.

They took an eight point advantage in the last 2:36 behind two free throws from Ryan Castro, 18-10.

(Jovito Tamayo(15) tries to get past defender Toby Agustin (11)).

In the third period, a triple from Gabrielle Diaz propelled the Squires to a 54-33 spread midway in the first 10 minutes of the second half.

In the last period, Cordero came alive with 10 points, and his two charities in the last 6:36 helped Letran achieve a 73-43 spread.

More surprises from the Squires and big plays from Cordero are expected in their next game, which is on Friday against the Mapua Red Robins.

(Members of the Letran Squires singing their school anthem).

The scores:

Letran 92—Cordero 23, Tamayo 19, Diaz 10, David 10, Felomino 6, Castro 6, Olis 4, Villanueva 4, Maneze 4, Caalaman 2, Villarete 2, Villanueva 2, Sabile 0, Montes 0, Petalio 0.

JRU 54—Sicat 13, Tierre 12, Sta. Maria 10, Agustin 7, Tierra 5, Baliad 4, Carreon 2, Macompas 1, Tan 0, Relente 0, Nazareno 0.

Quarterscores: 19-11, 45-25, 60-40, 92-54.

NCAA Season 91: Letran Squires win protest, but still accepts loss to LSGH Greenies as legit

30 June 2015,

Tuesday,

2 p.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

New Letran Squires coach Raymund Tiongco is looking forward to having a legitimate victory against the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers.

Tiongco believes the team needs one real victory after the squad lost their game to the La Salle Greenhills Greenies under protest last Tuesday in the junior basketball action of the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association.

The Greenies came away with an easy 88-49 smothering of the rookie-laden Squires at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

(Letran Squires Jovito Tamayo gets double teamed by LSGH teammates John Mallinllin (14) and Luis Velasco (11)).

A day after that win,  the NCAA Management Committee chaired by Melchor Divina of Mapua upheld the recommendation of commissioner Arturo “Bai” Cristobal to the La Salle-Greenhills victory.

Letran officials noted during the game that there was a violation after LSGH players showed up in uniforms which violated a league rule limiting players to Nos. 4 to 19.

LSGH’s Jesmar Pedrosa, Alain Madrigal and Ladis Lepalam wore nos. 20, 28 and 27, respectively.

(Ian Herrera(5) gets blocked by Gabrielle Diaz(7)).

With the forfeiture, the Squires were awarded the win.

But Tiongco said this is not a cause for celebration for the team.

“Our next game is JRU. Hindi kami magre-rely sa protest para sa panalo. We accept our loss to LSGH,” said Tiongco.

(Alain Madrigal shoots a charity).

Tiongco said the Greenies were a worthy opponent, and were more experienced than them

The team only has two veterans Kenneth Maneze and Rhayniel David.

And, it’s a brand new squad he’s handling since taking over from Junjie Ablan.

(John Mallinlin (14) goes for a layup past Jayric Villanueva (11) and Kiefer Cordero(18)).

• LSGH Greenies 88, Letran Squires 49

Tiongco said the Greenies win on the Squires should not be taken lightly.

“Malalaki ang players nila. Prepared sila sa amin. Iyun lang, kung hindi lang dahil sa uniform,” remarked Tiongco.

Ricci Rivero, who is on his final year with the Greenies, took on his leadership role with the Greenies well.

(Rodney Manuel (10)).

He had 35 points and dominated the boards with Ian Herrera with 11 rebounds.

Herrera had six, but he came up big under the boards with 12.

With the two taking turns at the shaded lanes, the Greenies went on to move away, 24-6.

(Ricci Rivero(9)).

The youngest brother of La Salle Green Archer Prince Rivero poured in eight more points as the Greenies held the Squires to just 12 in the next period, and took a 45-20 halftime advantage.

He struck hardest in the third with 19, and the Greenies went on to take a 71-35 spread in the third.

As for the Squires, newbie Jovito Tamayo banged in 13 points, and was held scoreless in the third, while Kiefer Cordero had nine.

The scores:

LSGH 88—Rivero 35, Manuel 12, Pedrosa 9, Madrigal 7, Herrera 6, Mallinlin 6, Lepalam 4, Velasco 3, Magpantay 2, Ollano 2, Joven 2, Pagulayan 0, Lanot 0, Boo 0.

Letran 49- Tamayo 13, Cordero 9, E. Villanueva  6, J. Villanueva 6, Maneze 4, Caalaman 3, Diaz 3, David 3, Sabile 2, Felomino 0, Villarete 0, Montes 0, Castro 0, Petalio 0.

Quarterscores: 24-6, 45-20, 71-35, 88-49.

NCAA Season 91: Mahinay, Tagala come up with big plays for SBC Red Cubs, SBC 80, Mapua 63

29 June, 2015

Monday,

2 p.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

There are new kids on the block, and the defending champion San Beda Red Cubs were in for a big fight with them around last Monday, June 28.

Germy Mahinay and Joshua Tagala spearhead the Red Cubs’ effort to turn back the Mapua Red Robins, 80-63.

They were among the most productive as the Red Cubs went on take the lead in the start of 91st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament at the Arena in San Juan.

(Germy Mahinay (12) tries to keep defenders Eugene Camilos(4) and Jasper Salenga(11) from getting the ball. John Lagumen(19) provides help).

Six-foot-six Germy Mahinay came up with aggressive plays under the boards.

Two ex-Red Cubs, Joshua Caracut and Norrish Decapia were around to cheer them on, and watched as Mahinay and  teammate Joshua Tagala shot 13 points, but Mahinay stood out with eight big rebounds,

“In-encourage po ako ng mga teammates para maging ganun ang laro ko, at ng mga coaches,” remarked Mahinay after the game, and after he has cooled down and rested at the dugout.

(Joshua Tagala in a rebound play).

Mahinay, a 10th grader who hails from Sison, Pangasinan, took credit for baskets which allowed Taytay-based Red Cubs to move away.

His putback in the last 1:08 of the first period to handed the Red Cubs a seven-point lead in the first period, 17-10.

“Pangit ang laro ko nung una, pero nung dumating ang second, nakakumpiyansa na ako,” said Mahinay.

(Sam Abuhijle (16) finds himself in a rough spot with Jasper Salenga (11) and Romuel Junsay (18).

In the second quarter, Tagala’s drives allowed the Red Cubs to stay in front by 13, 28-15.

The Red Cubs are now in for their biggest mission since making it to the Palarong Pambansa secondary basketball semifinals under the Calabarzon banner.

The guys reached the semifinals of the 21^st Fr, Martin Summer Cup.

(Alberto Bordeus tries to screen Mapua’s Jasper Salenga(11)).

This also gave them start in their quest of a record sixth straight crown.

“This is a good sign for us. Game 1 namin, at Mapua pa. Malaya pa naman at marami pang puedeng mangyari,” said Red Cubs coach JB Sison.

It was the Red Cubs first triumph over the Red Robins since they last met and beat Mapua in Game 3 of their best-of-three finals showdown last year.

(Mapua’s Michael Enriquez (9) tries to get two San Beda defenders, Mahinay (12) and Ry de la Rosa(11).

Ryan Nelle hit 7 point, including three treys in the remaining 7:06 of the second period, and this allowed the Red Cubs to take a 24-12 spread.

Another triple from Pedro Alfaro followed by Mahinay’s attack from inside the paint gave San Beda at 17-point spread, 36-19, before halftime.

Sam Abuhijle had 11 points, and was also dominant with six rebounds.

(Romuel Junsay(18) lays up off Ryan Nelle(10)).

His two charities with 5:43 to go kept San Beda ahead, 50-35.

Romuel Junsay shot 19 points for the Red Robins before he hurt his right knee in the third. Michael Enriquez and Jasper Salenga had 16 apiece.

The Red Cubs went on the share the early lead with the Arellano Braves.

(Germy Mahinay).

Ira Bataller tallied 14 points and towed four teammates who scored in double digits for the Braves, who smothered the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers, 103-34.

The Braves held the Light Bombers to just 10 points in the second period and went on to post a 45-10 halftime lead.

“Maraming bagong player sa amin. Pinaghandaan naming ito,” said Braves coach Tylon Darjuan on their triumph over JRU, which is still grieving over the death of one of the cagers CJ Servillon last summer.

(Joshua Tagala).

The scores:

First game

San Beda 80- Tagala 13, Mahinay 13, Abuhijle 11, Lagumen 10, Bordeus 8, Alfaro 8, Nelle 7, dela Rosa 5, Velasquez 3, Etrata 2, Barbero 0, Nayve 0, Bonalos 0
Mapua 63- Junsay 19, Enriquez 16, Salenga 16, Concepcion 4, Yco 4, Velvez 2, Bonifacio 2, Camilos 0, Badillo 0, Garcia 0, Uson 0
Quarterscores: 17-12; 36-28; 62-49; 80-63

Second game

Second Game (jrs)
Arellano U 103- Bataller 14, Sunga 12, Abadeza 11, Fornis 11, dela Torre 10, Calapine 8, Espiritu 8, Bontao 7, Velasco 5, Tamayo 5, de Leon 4, Dularte 4, Torrejos 2, Danas 2, Canete 0
Jose Rizal 34- Sta. Maria 13, Teirra 8, Baliad 7, Macompas 2, Carreon 2, Nazareno 2, Sicat 0, Tan 0
Quarterscores: 22-4; 45-10; 76-24; 103-34

NCAA Season 91: Coach Chot Reyes, the San Beda Red Lions, Ice Reyes and the coming season 91 cage wars

23 June 2015,

Tuesday,

1 p.m.,

Lobby,

Green Sun Hotel,

Makati City

Chot Reyes has just emerged from the elevator, and was having a conversation with scribes after the launch of “Rise,” which is a first ever reality documentary and basketball development program supported by Nike.

The current  head of Sports5, TV5’s sports division, was having a conversation with me and Spin.ph editor-in-chief Dodo Catacutan as we were about to leave the building.

(Chot Reyes during the launch of “Rise” with Nike Philippine country marketing manager Patrick Reyes (center) and Jimmy Alapag).- Photo taken by me.

While Mr. Catacutan was asking about the current national under-23 basketball team which just won the Southeast Asian Games gold medal, I had other things in mind.

(Coach Chot Reyes watches the San Beda Red Lions in action during the finals of the recent FilOil-Flying V cagefest)- photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

His son Isaiah Gilbert “Ice” Reyes was on my mind.

You see Ice just made it to team A of the San Beda Red Lions.

(The San Beda Red Lions celebrated winning the 2015 FilOil-Flying V crown. Ice Reyes (12) is in the photo).photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

And he will see action in the coming season 91 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament, which gets going this Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Chot expressed his happiness about the development.

(Last season’s batch of Red Lions with former coach Boyet Fernandez).

“This is a testimony of his hard work and patience. He made it to Team A on his final year. I congratulate him,” remarked Chot before he entered a waiting vehicle at the driveway.

After answering some queries made by Mr. Catacutan, he describes Ice’s game more as a defensive player, and not as a shooter.

(Olaide Adeogun (10) in a possession battle with La Salle’s Jason Perkins)-photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

“He’s not a shooter. He’s more of a defensive player like his mother,” said Chot, who used to coach the Gilas Pilipinas men’s national team.

Ice’s entry into the Red Lions’ comes following a two-year wait, and after making his debut in an off-season cagefest, 11th Fr. Martin Division 2 Cup cagefest, in 2013.

(Nichole Sorela(16) harasses the ball carrier from La Salle, Jeron Teng))-photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

(Ice’s first game be read here: https://pektuscorner.wordpress.com/2013/08/11/the-fr-martin-cup-notes-from-the-upper-box-part-3-chot-reyes-and-son-ice-fighting-two-different-battles/).

Unfortunately, as the San Beda Red Lions meets host Mapua in the opener at 1 p.m. , Chot won’t be able to have the pleasure of watching Ice play his first game with Team A.

Not like in past games when he was in team B, and in high school when Ice was still the Jamike Jarin-coached Ateneo Blue Eaglets.

This Saturday, Chot will be  in Dagupan with Jimmy Alapag for the start of the “Rise” program, and he will actively taking part in the tryouts.

(Roldan Sara (left) tries to dribble past Thomas Torres).photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

And hopefully, that will be the only game he will miss.

During the six-week program, 12 male and 12 female players will be chosen, and the selected the athletes will try out the latest product innovations, as well as have access to professional training through coaches and athletes.

• Ice Reyes’ new journey with the Red Lions

As Ice joins the team, the reigning five-time champion San Beda College Red Lions will be raring to go for another crown in the coming season.

“If I rate it, we’re 70 percent ready,” said new coach Jamike Jarin, who added that he has an almost intact roster in Season 91.

(Roldan Sara falls during a possessiob battle with La Salle’s Jeron Teng).photo courtesy of FilOil-Flying V Facebook account.

The Red Lions are returning with the core of Art Dela Cruz, Ola Adeogun, and the country’s best pure point guard, Baser Amer still in the mix.

And their presence is expected to boost the Red Lions’ bid for a record-breaking attempt to claim six championships in a row.

The Big Three of Mendiola are said to be  responsible for 52.2% of the team’s output, with Adeogun averaging16.1 points and  11.5 rebounds.

He is one of only five players who average on double-double last year.

Adeogun has done a lot  for a Red Lions team that has surprisingly shot only 25% in field goals compared to previous seasons.

On the other hand, de la Cruz was efficient when he shot 46% and hauled down 9.4 rebounds an outing.

Their efforts provided support to a struggling Amer, who hit only at a 35.8% clip overall.

The team will make adjustments with the loss of Anthony Semerad who shot a blistering 41% in field goals.

Kyle Pascual, who got a championship for every year he played, has also graduated and will be leaving a big question mark as to who will give Adeogun a breather but still produce in short bursts.

There are four players from team B will most likely be tapped to fill in vacancies in the roster of the Red Lions.

Six-foot-six Donald Pierre Tankoua, a Cameroonian big man, will be among the four cagers whom Jarin is considering to elevate from team B to Team A, and play for the squad.

Tankoua, who spent a lot of time developing his game in Team B over the last two year, is being eyed to come aboard.

There’s  wingmen Amiel Soberano, Jeremer Cabanag, Jose Presbiterio, and another guard, which is Ice Reyes.

Cabanag is from Laguna, and Presbiterio comes from Ateneo de Davao.

All four have been lined up in the Red Lions’ games in pre-season tournaments, and because of this, the team is almost ready for action.

Jarin said he can’t accept members of the six-peat junior champion San Beda Red Cubs yet because they need time to develop their game.

“It would be better if they get matured in their games first before I take them in,” he explained.

Some of the Red Cubs have left elsewhere, with key player Andrei Caracut moving to the La Salle Green Archers.

Teammates Evan Furaque and Norrish Decapia are with the University of Santo Tomas Tigers, and the likes of Marc Joper Diputado is trying his luck with the National University Bulldogs.

    

The 21st Fr. Martin Summer Cup finals: Clemente’s great game, the NU Bullpups’ title conquest and the SBC Red Cubs

17 June 2015,

Wednesday,

11:30 a.m.,

Arellano University gymnasium,

Legarda,

Manila

John Lloyd Clemente is slowly but surely coming out of the shadows with his game.

Last season,  Mark Dyke was the dominant big man of the National University Bullpups.

Dyke was the go-to guy underneath when the Bullpups fought for the championship honors of the 77^th University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) junior basketball tournament.

(The victorious NU Bullpups get their trophy from commissioner Robert de la Rosa).

Having graduated from high school last March, coach Jeff Napa looked for and found not one, but two fitting replacements.

And that’s Clemente and Justine Baltazar, who controlled the boards and helped power the NU Bullpups last Wednesday, June 16, to the junior division crown of the 21st Fr. Martin Summer Cup basketball tournament.

In that game, Clemente took charge with 17 points while point guard Daniel Atienza made 15 points for the NU Bullpups, who turned back San Beda-A, 71-56, in the winner-take-all finals at the Arellano University gymnasium in Legarda, Manila.

(John Clemente dribbling the ball).

“Teamwork po lahat ito,” said Clemente, a grade 10 student after the game.

The Bullpups broke free from the Red Cubs grip midway in the second period.

Atienza, who had 15 points, led the attack, including two charities in the last 1:06 which gave NU a 32-26 advantage.

(John Lloyd Clemente tries to drive past San Beda Red Cub Pedro Alfaro).

They then took a 12-point lead in the last 6:58 of the third canto, and off Karl Penano’s charities.

“It was in our team defense where the team got its confidence. Finally, in the third quarter, the team’s real game came out,” said NU coach Jeff Napa.

A triple from Niel Tolentino, and Atienza’s perimeter attack then saw the Bullpups moving away further, 47-32, with 4:46 left.

((Red Sam Abuhijle getting harassed).

In the end, the  Bullpups, who kept their records clean  with a 10-game sweep.

First, the Bullpups, who kept their records clean in Group A by sweeping their seven-game assignment.

They then  outplayed the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs, 93-60, with Dave Camaso showing the way with 16 points in the quarterfinals.

(Karl Penano (4) gets in the way of Jeremy Mahinay (12)).

In the semifinals, Clemente drilled in 18 points, and Paul Manalang chipped in 16 to help NU get past the University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas, 79-65.

It’s still a long way to go before season 78 comes around. But Napa believes that the team has time enough to get ready.

“Medyo bitin pa. But, still we got the preseason title,” he said.

(Addie Velasco grabbing possession).

The scores:

First game (jrs)

NU 71- Clemente 17, Atienza 15, Baltazar 12, Penano 12, Careng 8, Tolentino 2, Callejo 1, Amsali 1, Jugar 0.

San Beda-A 56- Velasquez 13, Nelle 9, Bordeos 8, Mahinay 6, Abuhijle 5, Lagumen 4, Nayve 2, Tagala 2.

Quarterscores: 18-12, 33-26, 53-41, 71-56.

(Daniel Atienza takes a free throw).