NCAA Season 92 Junior Basketball: Pre-season thoughts from the Mapua Red Robins and Mike Enriquez (part 1)

 

03, June, 2016

Friday,

7:30 p.m.

FilOil-Flying V Sports Center,

San Juan

 

As he walked along the dugouts of the FilOil-Flying V Sports Center on June 3, 2016, Mike Enriquez reflected and talked about his thoughts.

“My game is Ok naman. Iniisip namin kung paano mag improve ang team,” said Enriquez minutes after the Red Robins won over the Far Eastern University, 83-80, in the junior division of the 2016 FilOil-Flying V pre-season basketball tournament.

The team, which is once again coached by Randy Alcantara,  has been playing without three players who have graduated.

(Mike Enriquez)

And they are getting for war in the coming season 92 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball wars, which will commence on June 27.

The team is feeling the absence of mainstays David Velvez,  Eugene Camillosa and Justine Serrano, who has since moved over to the Mapua Cardinals.

“Dami nawala kaya naging tagilid ang team. May mga pumalit na makakatulong,” observed Mike, who was last year’s Finals MVP in place of Ricci Rivero.

(new Red Robin cager Will Gozum fights for the loose ball with FEU main man Jack Gloria)

Personally, Enriquez said his leadership on the court as a point guard,  and his shooting improved following their 79-85 loss to the Arellano University Braves in the second semifinal playoffs for a second finals slot.

 

Their win last June 3 allowed them to share the same 2-2 win-loss record, which they shared with the La Salle Greenhills.

(Battle of the bigs with Sherwin Concepcion (8) and FEU’s Jack Gloria).

They did not make it to the semifinals with the triple tie.

 

In that game, Romuel Junsay led with 20 points, but it was Enriquez who scored crucial points with his total of 7.

(FEU’s LJ Gonzales tries to dribble his way pasy Mapua’s Romuel Junsay).

On the Baby Tams’ side, Jack Gloria led with 17 points, and Jay Gonzales provided 16.

The Baby Tams were nursing a 79-78 lead in the final minute when Gonzalez scored one of  two free throws in the last 21.8 seconds.

 (Mapua’s Jasper Salenga (11) and Warren Bonifacion (15) tries to screen a pass by FEU’s Rey Boc (12) to LJ Gonzales (14), with Mapua’s Eric Andaya (6) coming in position for a triple team).

FEU had a chance to keep the upperhand. But Royce Alforque’s five second violation on his inbound to Kenji Roman resulted in a turnover.

 

Enriquez got to score two winning charities with 4.5 seconds left off Roman’s foul.

 

Time ran out on FEU as Roman tried to score a triple.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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: 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.

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- Mapua Red Robins, JRU Light Bombers ends LSGH Greenies’ Final Four journey; Velvez shines

06 October 2014,

Monday,

2 p.m.,

Filoil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

 

NCAA Season 90

Junior Basketball Tournament

Team Standings

W   L

San Beda Red Cubs       15   3

Mapua Red Robins        15   3

Letran Squires               12   5

JRU Light Bombers       12   5

LSGH Greenies              10   7

SSC Staglets                  10   8

Arellano Braves               5   12

LPU Junior Pirates                    4   13

UPHSD Altalettes                     3   15

EAC-ICA Brigadiers        2   16

 

The road to the Final Four semifinals was over for the La Salle Greenhills  Greenies on October 6, Monday.

 

Both the Mapua Red Robins and the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers made sure that the Greenies’ bid will no longer prosper in the 90th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.

 

First, the Mapua Red Robins played a guessing game with the  Greenies in the final period.

(The Mapua Red Robins are all smiles after their win over the LSGH Greenies).

Five of six key players were in the groove that afternoon.

And the team’s balanced scoring allowed them to put away the Greenies, 82-75.

 

–        Mapua Red Robin 82, LSGH 75

David Velvez overcame back problems as he joined four other teammates in scoring in double digits.

(David Velvez in the act of shooting a free throw).

 

Coming off the bench in the third period, Velvez had 12 points, including a driving layup in the last 2:43 which gave the Red Robins a 76-69 lead in the ensuing play.

His steal off Breo Bunyi in the last 13.4 seconds led to another layup which allowed the Red Robins to enjoy a five-point cushion at endgame.

(The LSGH Greenies singing their school anthem).

“Pinilit ko na lang. Gusto ko kasing manalo ang team at makakuha ng advantage sa Final Four,” said the 18-year old Velvez.

(Noah Lugo in action).

The Greenies were able to come close for the last in the last 6:05.

 

Ricci Rivero had 23 points, including a drive with allowed LSGH to threaten by three, 67-70.

 

After two turnovers, the Red Robins found a chance to move away off Sherwin Concepcion, who hit a fadeaway with 4:54 to go.

(Michael Enriquez dribbles his way past Luis Velasco (14)).

This gave the Red Robins a 72-67 lead in the next instance.

 

Concepcion once again showed the way for the Red Robins with 17 points, while teammates Noah Lugo and Michael Enriquez tallied 14. Laurenz Victoria had 12 with Velvez.

 

“Balanced ang scoring kaya maganda ang resulta. Hindi nila alam kung sino ang gagawa at iiskor,” remarked Red Robins coach Randy Alcantara.

(Ricci Rivero(9) drives his way to a basket, and past Mapua’s Ronald Pascua (10), Sherwin Concepcion (18) and John Gob (12)).

Because of this,  Red Robins formally clinched the second twice-to-beat incentive in the Final Four semifinals. At the same time, their 15th win in 18 games came at the end of their second round assignment.

 

They tied the defending champion San Beda Red Cubs in the lead, and they Red Robins will meet them on Friday in a playoff for no. 1 and 2 seedings.

 

They helped ease the Greenies out of contention, and after LSGH absorbed their seventh loss in 17 matches.

(Sherwin Concepcion (18) grabs possession away from John Gob(12), and with teammate Noah Lugo helping him out.

With still a game left in the Greenies’ schedule, they dropped to fifth spot.

 

The Greenies were still hopeful after that.

 

But, six hours later, the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers formally shut the door on the Greenies with their 99-83 overtime win over the San Sebastian Staglets.

(Mapua’s Laurenz Victoria(4) tries to get away from LSGH defender Amando San Juan(18)).

The Light Bombers ended the elims with a 12-6 win-loss slate, and in fourth spot behind the Letran Squires.

 

Games Oct. 05, Monday

 

The Scores:

 

Second game

 

JRU 99 – Estrella 29, Dela Virgen 23, Dada 17, Garcia 14, Astrero 8, Estrada 4, Anonuevo 2, Abrigos 2, Anore 0, StaMaria 0.

 

SSCR 83- Navarro 23, Cruz 18, Ilagan 15, Magno 12, Sera Josef 10, Mercado 2, Alfaro 2, Paclarin 1, Bonleon 0, Malamug 0, Causon 0, Miasco 0.

 

Quarterscores: 18-26, 44-39, 60-53, 81-81, 99-83 (OT)

 

First game

 

Mapua 82- Concepcion 17, Lugo 14, Enriquez 14, Victoria 12, Velvez 12, Aguirre 6, Pascua 5, Bonifacio 2, Calderon 0, Salenga 0, Cabural 0.

 

LSGH 75 – Rivero 23, San Juan 17, Dela Cruz 10, Salonga 9, Gob 7, Madrigal 5, Herrera 2, Velasco 2, Bunyi 0, Pagulayan 0, Alcala 0.

 

Quarterscores: 25-11, 43-29, 58-53, 82-75.

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- The best games of Sherwin Concepcion; Mapua Red Robins topples Letran Squires, 62-62

29 September 2014,

 

3 p.m.,

 

Saturday,

 

Filoil-Flying V Arena,

 

San Juan

 

NCAA Season 90

 

Junior Basketball Tournament

 

Team Standings

 

W   L

 

San Beda                         14   3

 

Mapua                             13   3

 

Letran                              11   5

 

JRU                                  11   5

 

LSGH                                 9  6

 

SSC                                     8   7

 

Arellano                            5   11

 

LPU                                    3   13

 

UPHSD                              4   12

 

EAC-ICA                            2   15

 

 

Sherwin Concepcion is getting in the groove these days.

 

The six-foot-two Concepcion contributed big time in two of the Mapua Red Robins’ three crucial wins and eventual qualification for at least a playoff for  Final Four semifinals berth in the 90^th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.

 

First, a week ago on September 22, Monday, Concepcion was in a slump.

(Sherwin Concepcion screens Letran Squires cager Rhayniel David (14)).

 

The six-foot-two Concepcion had only two points and two rebounds when the Red Robins smothered the Emilio Aguinaldo College-Immaculate Concepcion Academy Brigadiers, 80-52.

 

His poor showing came two hours after a bench-clearing incident marred the no-bearing encounter between the Mapua Cardinals and the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals in the senior division.

 

As a result, a total of 17 players from both sides were suspended.

(David Velvez (12) hits a layup after evading Letran’s Jerus Ramirez (6)).

At that time, David Velvez and Michael Enriquez took charge for the Red Robins with 15 and 12 for the Red Robins.

 

Then, Sherwin got out of his hump.

 

He scored a careerhigh 25 points and eight rebounds when the Red Robins won a washed-out, interrupted and rescheduled game with the Arellano University Braves, 96-75, last Saturday.

(Letran’s Jerrick Balanza chases down Mapua’s Laurenz Victoria).

Last Monday, he led the way 18 points and 11 rebounds when the Red Robins brushed past the Letran Squires, 62-42.

 

“Una, first and second quarter, relax lang kami. Pero kinausap kami ni coach na kailangan nang lumamang kami hanggang fourth quarter,” said the 17-year old Concepcion after their game with the Squires.

 

And now, with the Red Robins now playing in another reliable guy around, they have earned themselves the second Final Four semifinals slot with their 13-3 win-loss record.

(Mapua’s Dennel Aguirre gets in the middle of screen by Letran teammates Jerus Ramirez (6) and Tommy Gedaria (9)).

Their game came after the Letran Knights won by fortfeiture over the Mapua Cardinals in the seniors divisions.

 

This is because many players of the Cards were serving various counts of suspension for their involvement in the bench-clearing incident.

 

As for the Red Robins team, they are in the stage of the elimination where they can’t afford to start fights, get involved in one, or have their games forfeited.

(Mapua’s Ronald Pascua dribbles away from Letran’s Tommy Gedaria).

• Play by play

 

The Squires were slightly ahead, 25-21, in the second quarter when the Red Robins’ offense began stirring to life.

 

Back-to-back baskets from Dennel Aguirre tied the contest 25-all, for the second time in the last 3:50.

 

Velvez, who tallied 16 points,  then put Mapua ahead, 27-25, before Tommy Gedaria replied for the Squires with another drive for the game’s third and last deadlock at 27-all.

(Letran’s Johan Rubite in action, with Mapua’s Jasper Salenga (left) and Laurenz Victoria (4) double teaming him).

Aguirre’s deadlock-shattering triple followed by Michael Enriquez’s layup then touched off 14-3 blast in the ensuing play.

 

Concepcion capped this run with a triple, and Mapua was never in trouble after they took a 41-30 spread in the remaining 2:18.

 

They then maintained their lead in the last period.

 

They held the Squires to just six points in the remaining 10 minutes as after the Red Robins began double teaming and shutting down prolific scorers Jerrick Balanza, Gedaria and Johann Rubite.

 

“Tumama ang defense namin, tumama ang game plan namin. Tapos nakabitaw at naging blowout na ang score sa fourth quarter,” said Red Robins coach Randy Alcantara.

 

• Scenario

 

With their 13^th win in 16 games, the Red Robins have assured themselves of a playoff for the Final Four semifinals slot.

 

The Squires have dropped from third to fourth with their 9-5 win-loss record, which they share with the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers.

 

They have two remaining games, and the Red Robins need to get past La Salle Greenhills and the Light Bombers to secure the second twice-to-beat incentive.

 

The scores:

 

Second game

 

SSC-R  91 – Magno 27, Cruz 24, Ilagan 22, Bonleon 7, Navarro 6, Causon 3, Mercado 2, Alfaro 0, Paclarin 0, Malamug 0, Padigdig 0, Sera Josef 0, Miasco 0, Ong 0.

 

EAC 80 – Cruz 16, Castillo 15, Montilla 15, Tayomora 12, Cayabo 10, Piopongco 6, Beduria 4, Catusalem 2, Baliquig 0, Falcon 0, Gentile 0, Justan 0, Dungca 0, Ligot 0, Bacani 0.

 

Quarterscores: 20-23, 42-37, 56-57, 91-80.

 

First game

 

MIT 62 – Concepcion 18, Velvez 16, Aguirre 15, Pascua 3, Cabural 2, Calderon 2, Enriquez 2, Salenga 2, Victoria 2, Bonifacio 0.

 

CSJL 42 – Gedaria 12, Balanza 10, Rubite 7, Dungan 4, Ramirez 4, David 3, Magsino 2, Caunan 0, Gonzales 0, Villasis 0.

 

Quarterscores: 6-14, 21-23, 45-36, 62-42

 

 

 

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- LSGH Greenies stays in contention; LSGH Greenies 79, JRU Light Bombers 71, other results

24 September 2014,
Wednesday,
8 p.m.,
Filoil-Flying V Arena,
San Juan

Team W L
San Beda 13 3
Mapua 11 3
JRU 11 4
Letran 11 4
LSGH 9 6
SSC 8 7
Arellano 5 10
LPU 4 12
UPHSD 3 13
EAC-ICA 2 15

Ricci Rivero and John Gob continue to provide a ray of hope for the La Salle Greenhills Greenies.

Their chances of making it to the Final Four semifinals are not good.

But the La Salle Greenhills Greenies have not given up hope.

(Ricci Rivero (white and green) tries to force his way past JRU’s Joco Estrada).

Last Wednesday, Sept. 14, they fought off the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers, 79-71.

Coming off a 20-day layoff, the Greenies posted their fourth consecutive win, and their ninth overall in 15 games in the 90th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball wars.

Rivero and Gob came up with the big baskets at endgame, and they helped keep the Greenies in fifth spot.

(JRU’s Andrei Dada barrels his way past Michael de la Cruz).

So far, the Greenies are two games behind of Final Four contenders, the Letran Squires and the Light Bombers.

Their loss to LSGH had the Light Bombers slipping down to from second spot, and into a share of fourth with the Letran Squires.

Both now have the same 11-4 win-loss records.

(LSGH big man John Gob gets harassed by JRU’s Darious Estrella(19) and John Sta. Maria.

“We are still continuing what we are doing. We are holding on,” said LSGH coach John Flores.

The Greenies have three remaining games.

And they can advance to the Final Four if they sweep their matches against University of Perpetual Help, Mapua and Letran.

(Promising LSGH big man Ian Herrera (5) drives past JRU’s Joco Estrada).

-Play-by play

The Light Bombers were enjoying a 71-67 advantage in the last 4:56.

This was after Mark de la Virgen unloaded a three-point shot to put JRU in front for the last time in their very close encounter with LSGH.

But two triples from Rivero and a layup from Gob in the last 2:38 turned things around for the LSGH.

(Mark de la Virgen (7) gets screened by Luis Velasco (14) and Alain Madrigal (6).

They earned a 75-71 advantage afterwards

They forced JRU to four crucial turnovers in the remaing.

From there, two charities each from Amando San Juan and Gob in the last 6.2 seconds allowed LSGH to finish with an eight-point lead.

– A revelation in Ian Herrera

Ricci, the younger brother of Prince and Rasheed, tallied 21 points while Gob came up with another double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds for LSGH.

De la Virgen shot 24 points, including 10 points which allowed JRU to stay on top in the third period, 59-57.

Michael de la Cruz was good for 11 points for LSGH.

But the Light Bombers held him to just three in the fourth.

Coach Flores had something else up his sleeves after Gob got held to just four points at the end of the third.

He brought in rookie big man Ian Herrera, who had only nine points.

But Herrera proved his worth as Gob, who played for 27 minutes, was tiring out in the initial minutes of the fourth.

Herrera struck hardest After Darious Estrella put JRU ahead, 60-57, with his split charity.

A pair of layups from Herrera allowed LSGH to move up, 61-60, in the final 8:49.

With Gob having enough rest, Herrera then checked out of the game quietly.

“In the last nine minutes, Ian Herrera came up big while Gob was resting. He provided us with quality minutes,” added Flores.

From Ian’s performance, Flores found someone he can rely when Gob is 100 percent.

There words of praise on Ian, who was utilized much during crucial moments of earlier games.

“I was surprised. He was aggressive today. I think that mattered a lot. We can’t rely on Gob playing more than 30 minutes per game. He needs to be rested,” noted Flores.

The Scores:

Sept. 26, 2014 Games

Second Game

SSC-R 77 – Cruz 22, Magno 13, Ilagan 10, Navarro 9, Causon 6, Bonleon 5, Mercado 5, Sera Josef 4, Bardaje 3, Alfaro 0, Malamug 0, Miasco 0, Padigdig 0.

LPU 72 – Guadaña 20, Cecilio 18, Santos 16, Castaneda 6, Menil 6, Bautista 3, Lagman 2, Jungco 1, Agdon Jass. 0, Glipo 0, Pere 0, Wong 0.

Quarterscores: 18-17, 40-28, 61-47, 77-72.

Second Game

EAC-ICA 85 – Castillo 18, Cayabo 15, Piopongco 13, Montilla 12, Cruz 12, Tayomora 11, Catusalem 2, Gentile 2, Baliquig 0, Beduria 0, Dungca 0, Justan 0.

UPHSD 82 – Chavez 21, Villaceran 18, Sison 16, Alarcon 11, Umali 7, Tan 4, Manaligod 3, Yaco 2, Neri 0.

Quarterscores: 12-16, 28-37, 57-62, 85-82

Sept. 24, 2014 games

Second game

CSB 79- Rivero 21, Gob 20, Dela Cruz 11, Madrigal 10, Herrera 9, San Juan 6, Velasco 2, Bunyi 0, Salonga 0, Pagulayan 0, Alcala 0.

JRU 71 — Dela Virgen 24, Estrella 14, Garcia 12, Dada 8, Sta Maria 4, Estrada 4, Astrero 3, Anonuevo 2.

Quarterscores: 16-17, 36-38, 57-59, 79-71.

First Game

Letran 85 – Dungan 15, Balanza 15, Rubite 13, Ramirez 12, Gedaria 11, David 6, Caunan 4, Magsino 4, Gonzales 3, Villasis 2, M,arasigan 0, Dava 0.

Arellano 70 – Zamora 22, Cabahug 12, De Lara 11, Strait 10, Juico 7, Balbarona 3, Peralta 3, Bataller 2, Enriquez 0, Manaloto 0.

Quarters: 14-17, 38-33, 64-49,85-70.

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- When Aljur Abrenica visits the NCAA Season 90 Junior Basketball wars; The JRU Light Bombers get relentless

12, September, 2014,

Friday,

8 p.m.,

Filoil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

 

There was something different about the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers, two weeks ago, Friday, September 12.

 

The presence of actor Aljur Abrenica at the upper box during their game against the Arellano University Braves was a sight to behold.

 

As so was their fighting heart as the JRU Light Bombers weathered a close game with the  Braves and won 70-68.

(Aljur Abrenica (in white shirt) watches the game of the JRU Light Bombers and the Arellano University Braves. He is in between members of the Dada family).

Mark de la Virgen’s drive off Karl Cabahug ensured the win in the last 6.4 seconds.

 

And so did a steal by Patrick Anonuevo on Juniel Balbarona after receiving an inbound pass from Guilmer de la Torre as the clock winded down.

 

Aljur, who recently opted out of a contract with GMA-7 as one of its talents, watched the action with Jowee Dada, the father of one of the key players of the Light Bombers.

(Andrei Dada grabs the loose ball during a possession battle with Arellano Braves Jason Strait(left)).

Jowee, who is now working as a production assistant for Aljur and his outfit (now that he has decided to go independent), was there with his boss, who obliged himself to selfies with fans and team supporters alike at halftime.

 

His son Andrei gave them a heck of  performance during the 31 minutes he saw action, with 21 gamehigh points.

 

Coach Nathaniel Gregorio told the boys that their performance in the second round is impossible to duplicate, with many teams leveling upon their own performance as well.

(Daruious Estrella (19)in a loose ball scramble with Jason Strait).

In this game, the boys showed their fighting hearts.

 

“The boys did not give up. They were aggressive and relentless in their defense and rebounding,” remarked Gregorio.

 

After the Light Bombers obliged a visit and a photo op from Aljur at the dugout, the 17-year old de la Virgen emerged said that everything went fine, and according to how their coach wanted things to happen.

(Arellano Braves cager John Peralta (16) harasses Mark de la Virgen).

“Galing sa pick and roll iyung shot ko. Una, nag-hesitate ako, tapos, saka ako nag drive. Pero di ako na-foul nung bantay ko,” said de la Virgen.

 

On the other hand, Anonuevo went home in a free-spirited mood and talked happily about his game, and after only two points that evening.

 

“Tsamba lang iyun. Hindi ko expected na makuha iyung bola nung nag-fumble siya,” said the five-foot-eight Anonuevo.

(John Zamora (8) fights for possession with Mark de la Virgen (7)).

The Light Bombers are now close to a Final Four seat,and they could get it if they hurdle La Salle Greenhills on Wednesday.

 

 

 

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- Furaque dominates the boards; SBC Red Cubs 90, LPU Junior Pirates 76; other scores

17, September, 2014,

Wednesday,

1:30 p.m.,

Filoil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

NCAA Season 90

Junior Basketball Tournament

Team Standings

 

Team                                        W   L

 

San Beda Red Cubs       12   3

 

JRU Light Bombers       11   3

 

Mapua Red Robins        10   3

 

Letran Squires               10   4

 

LSGH                            8    6

 

San Sebastian                7    7

 

Arellano Braves             5    9

 

LPU Junior Pirates        4    11

 

UPHSD                          3    11

 

EAC-ICA                       1    14

 

The San Beda Red Cubs thrived on fastbreak points in the second quarter.

 

And Evan Furaque provided most of the answers as the Red Cubs went on the Lyceum Philippines University Junior Pirates, 90-76, last Wednesday, Septembet 17, at the Filoil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

With Furaque at the forefront with Niko Abatayo and Kenneth Alas, the Red Cubs secured their 12th win in 15 games.

 

(Evan Furaque (left) in a possession battle with LPU’s Generoso Cecilio).

Evan’s big game helped the Red Cubs move up to no. 1 in the standings of the 90th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament.

After starting off sluggishly in the first period,  the 6-foot Furaque dished out 13 of his 19 point tally in the second canto.

His efforts allowed  the Red Cubs moved away from a close, 21-20, first quarter advantage.

(Niko Abatayo screens an LPU Junior Pirate cager).

Furaque, who hails from Davao City with Nikko Abatayo, averages 13.13 points per game, and 6.33 rebounds.

But his game that afternoon was off the charts.

As the Red held the Junior Pirates to just four points in the second canto, w Furaque held took charge underneath  by scoring 13 during a 22-0 run.

(Kenneth Alas (left) wins a scramble for a loose ball).

This gave them a 42-21 edge with 1:35 left.

 

Unfortunately, Furaque had to slow down in the next period after he was meted an unsportsmanlike foul following a tussle underneath  with Junior Pirate Makki Santos, who ended up with a torn uniform.

 

“OK naman, na execute naming ang mga plays na inutos ni coach sa amin, kaya kami nakalayo,” said the 18-year old Furaque as the Red Cubs went all out with their fastbreak game during the period.

(Norrish Decapia (4) grabs the rebound with Evan Furaque (11), and with Marc Castaneda (5) battling for possession).

 

-A Tough Season for the Red Cubs

 

Unlike last season, the Red Cubs are not alone in their quest for a crown, their dominance is being contested by the Letran Squires, the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers and the Mapua Red Robins.

 

Last year, they had a great season and automatically made it to the finals after sweeping their 18-game assignment during the elimination round.

 

Coach JB Sison is not satisfied with the way things are going for the Red Cubs even if they regained the no. 1 position with their win.

(Marc Diputado (18) collides with LPU cager Joshua Wong (12)).

“Delikado pa rin kami sa placing. Dikit-dikit ang standings. Matalo kaming isa, malaking bagay dahil malalaglag kami,” said Sison.

 

The  Red Cubs, the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers  and the Mapua Red Robins are three squads which are working to make hard to make it to the Final Four semifinals.

 

The San Beda Red Cubs, who are having shaky campaign this year, are now sure of at least a playoff slot.

 

On the other hand, the Mapua Red Robins have missed their chance twice because of bad weather.

 

After team members cut their hair short to make a statement, the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers are now on a four-game winning run, and are turning out to be one of the big challengers the Red Cubs’ bid.

 

Behind them are the JRU Light Bombers (11-3), the Mapua Red Robins (10-3) and the Letran Squires (10-4). The La Salle Greenhills Greenies are also still in contention at 8-6.

 

Their record put the Red Cubs right on track for their sixth straight crown.

 

The scores:

 

First game

 

San Beda 90- Furaque 19, Abatayo 15, Alas 12, Decapia 9, Diputado 8, Caracut 6, Abuhijle 6, Velasquez 5, Geralao 5, Framil 2, Bordeus 1, Apolto 1, Etrata 1, Alfaro 0.

 

LPU 76- Menil 18, Santos 17, Jungco 15, Cecilio 9, Bautista 6, Castaneda 5, Wong 4, Lagman 2, Pere 0, Agdon 0, J. Agdon 0, Glipo 0, Romanes 0, Guadana 0.

 

Quarterscores: 20-21, 47-25, 70-50, 90-76.

 

Second game

 

EAC 80-  Castillo 32, Montilla 14, Catusalem 14, Cruz 8, Gentile 6, Cayabo 3, Piopongco 3, Tayomora 0.

Arellano 75- Zamora 22, Juico 13, Strait 12, de Lara 9, Clemente 8, Cabahug 8,  de la Torre 2, Balbarona 2, Peralta 0, Gonzales 0, Manalac 0, Dulatre 0.

 

Quarterscores: 19-all, 46-35, 68-52, 80-75.

 

 

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- Gob, Rivero strikes; LSGH Greenies upset SBC Red Cubs, 70-59

30, August, 2014

Saturday,

2 p.m.,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

NCAA Season 90

Junior Basketball Tournament

Team Standings

W      L

 

San Beda Red Cubs                    9        3

 

Letran Squires                             9       2

 

Mapua Red Robins                     8        3

 

JRU Light Bombers                    8        3

 

San Sebastian Staglets                        6       6

 

La Salle Greenhills Greenies       6       6

 

Arellano Braves                           4       6

 

Lyceum Junior Pirates                 2        7

 

UPHSD Altalettes                       3        8

 

EAC–ICA Brigadiers                  0       11

 

The La Salle Greenhills Greenies proved deadly with their outside shooting and the inside plays of six-foot-five big man John Gob.

 

They stunned defending champion San Beda Red Cubs with their ferocity from inside and outside the paint, and came away with a 70-59 upset last Saturday, Aug. 30, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

 

The absence of national under-18 standout Joshua Andrei Caracut was felt by the Red Cubs, and the encounter brought the best out of Gob.

(John Gob (12) fights for the loose ball with Evan Furaque(11) and Mark Framil (7)).

Gob finished with a double-double, 25 points and 19 rebounds, while returning player Ricci Rivero chipped in 13 points for the Greenies, teammates Amando San Juan and Alain Madrigal delivered 12 and 11.

 

Their heroics gave the Greenies a fighting chance in the 90^th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament.

 

They moved up to take a share of fifth with  the San Sebastian Staglets in the team standings after they posted their sixth in 12 matches.

(Michael de la Cruz (15) tries to score a basket past Evan Furaque(left))

-Play-by-play

 

The game went into its last deadlock, 48-all, in the last 2:40, thanks to a three-point play from Red Cubs topscorer Marc Diputado, who led his team with 14 points.

 

Afterwards, Rivero drained the last of his three-pointer during his 16-minute stint with 1:04 to go, handing the Greenies the lead, 51-48, and with plenty of time to spare in the closing time of the period.

 

Then, Gob’s perimeter shot in the last 9:27 signalled the start of LSGH’s dramatic pullaway, 53-48.

(Ricci Rivero (9) makes his way past two defending Red Cubs).

After the Red Cubs managed to come close again, 51-53, here comes Amando San Juan with a triple and Gob with a barreling drive which handed LSGH a 7-point edge, 60-51, in the last 4:18.

 

The Red Cubs were trying to start a scoring run when  Diputado got tagged with an offensive foul after bumping into Rafael Salonga.

 

This became a chance for the Greenies to move further ahead by nine, 62-53,  when Gob sank another clutch basket in the ensuing turnover in the last two minute.

(Marc Diputado (18) gets chased down by Amando San Juan(18)).

 

They tried going for another rally after Mark Framil drained a triple in the final 1:36, 56-62.

 

But, the Red Cubs lost their composure after Diputado committed a pair of errors while trying to steal the ball from Salonga in the last 53.9 seconds.

 

A technical foul was called for improper bench decorum after Salonga was awarded two charities on an offensive foul called on Diputado.

 

Salonga sank one of two freebies, and sent in the other two on technical foul.

 

The Red Cubs could no longer catch up with LSGH enjoying a 65-56 advantage with less than a minute left.

LSGH coach John Flores said the game is very important for the Greenies, and in view of their bid to make it back to the Final Four.

He said they capitalized on the absence of Caracut, and he knows that the Red Cubs can still win without him.

Flores commended the team for the fighting spirit they showed against the Red Cubs.

“The boys came with their hearts and minds in the right place, and we were tougher today,” said Flores.

-Significance of the win

Last Friday, the Staglets took a 57-72 loss to the Mapua Red Robins, and they dropped from third place to fourth.

With both the Greenies and the Staglets sharing the same record, they will now turn their fight on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 12 nn into battle for which team can climb to a higher and better position in the standings.

And with their similar records, a race for the last seat in the Final Four semifinals is in the offing.

On the other hand, the Red Robins are tied in third with the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers at 8-3.

This came about after the Light Bombers won over the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, 71-63, also last Friday.

-The rise of the LSGH Greenies

The Greenies finished the first round tied for fourth with the Arellano University Braves, and with a scary 4-5 win-loss record.

The return of Ricci, the youngest of the Rivero brothers Prince and Rasheed, started it all.

Ricci was out eight games in the first round for disciplinary reasons (in school and not with the team, and something which his parents asked not to be disclosed), and also in the finals last year.

Holding a three-game average of 19.67 points, Ricci scored his highest with 22 points when they put away the Emilio Aguinaldo College-ICA Brigadiers, 77-62, last Aug. 22.

Gob, who norms 13.82 points and 15.85 rebounds, chipped in 11 points and six rebounds in that game.

Against the Junior Pirates, Rivero struck with 21 points and 13 boards, while Gob was held to two points and had nine rebounds.

-Best game of Gob

 

Their game with the Red Cubs brought the best out of Gob.

 

He scored the third highest output of the season, tying his good showing with Jasper Magno of San Sebastian.

 

Magno scored the same output when the Staglets won over the Lyceum Junior Pirates, 72-66.

 

Gob’s total rebound of 19 points is also off the charts.

 

It was above his norm of 15.55 rpg.

 

-1-2 MVP stats race for Gob Rivero

 

Statistically, Rivero and Gob are now ranked no. 1 and no. 2 in the overall statistics race for Most Valuable Player.

 

And this is after the first round, with Rivero having a player average value of 55.50, with Gob carrying 53.4.

 

Mapua’s Dennel Aguirre is third (48.80) followed by Perpetual Help’s Jeszir Sison(46.89) and Mapua’s Noah Lugo(45.30).

 

Jose Rizal University’s Jamil Garcia is also a mythical five candidate with 42.78, and so is teammate Mark de la Virgen(42.3) and Darious Estrella (41.5).

The scores:

LSGH 70- Gob 25, Rivero 13, de la Cruz 12, San Juan 11, Madrigal 5, Salonga 4, Velasco 0, Bunyi 0, Alcala 0, Herrera 0.

San Beda 59- Diputado 14,Framil 12, Decapia 10, Abatayo 10, Alas 4, Geralaor 3,Alfaro 2, Furaque 2,  Abuhijle 2, Velasquez 0.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 36-37, 48-51, 70-59.

 

 

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)- Diputado scores big; SBC Red Cubs 84, SSC Staglets 61

25, August, 2014,

2 p.m.,

Monday,

FilOil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

NCAA Season 90

Junior Basketball Tournament

Team Standings

W      L

San Beda Red Cubs                 9        2

Letran Squires                         9        2

Mapua Red Robins                  7        3

JRU Light Bombers                 7        3

Sebastian Staglets                             6        5

La Salle Greenhills Greenies    5        5

Arellano Braves                      4        6

Lyceum Junior Pirates             2        7

UPHSD Altalettes                             2        8

EAC–ICA Brigadiers               0        10

 

For Marc Diputado, somebody had to step up.

 

Without team captain Joshua Andrei Caracut, somebody had to take charge.

 

And, he did as the San Beda Red Cubs waylaid the San Sebastian Staglets, 84-61, last Monday, August 25, at the FilOil-Flying V Arena.

(Marc Diputado (18)drives past John Malamug (10)).

The five-foot-nine Diputado, whose elder brother Adven is a former Red Cub and is now with the National University Bulldogs, surprised everyone when he topscored for 31 points.

 

Averaging 11.4 points per game, it was his highest output ever as he led the Red Cubs to their fourth straight win in the 90^th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament.

 

After two elimination rounds, the Red Cubs stayed in the lead with nine wins and two losses after 11 rounds.

(Norrish Decapia in the act of shooting a free throw).

They now share the same 9-2 win-loss records, and they are both ahead in the lead.

 

Diputado became the go-to guy of the Red Cubs after Caracut joined the Batang Gilas Pilipinas under-18 national team  last week.

 

-How did Caracut perform in the FIBA-Asia Championships

(Mark Framil tries get past a screen by Regille Ilagan (19)).

Batang Gilas has so far finished fifth last Aug. 28 when they beat Japan 113-105, in overtime, FIBA Asia Under-18 Championship  classification round in Doha, Qatar.

 

In that game, Caracut had five points, one rebound and three assists.

 

In the eliminations, Caracut had two points, two rebounds, two assists and a steal when they bowed to China, 49-91, to finish third in Group C with a 3-2 win-loss record.

(Evan Furaque (11) screens Mario Bonleon (5) while Samuel Abuhijle (16) attempts a shot).

• How Caracut’s absence inspired Diputado and the other Cubs

 

Diputado poured in 11 points as the Red Cubs went on the offensive right away.

 

This had the Red Cubs moving away, 21-9, in the first 10 minutes of action.

 

“Wala si Andrei. Kaya kailangang may mag-stepup. Kaya, ginawa ko ang dapat kong gawin,” said Diputado, who was around for some 28 minutes.

 

Coach JB Sison said the team’s man-to-man defense kicked in in the opening quarter, and they were able to limit the Staglets to just nine points in the first 10 minutes of play.

 

“Defense pa rin. Iyun, nine points lang sila s first quarter,” said Sison.

 

Diputado added 12 points in the second canto as the Red Cubs took a 48-30 halftime advantage.

 

On the defensive end, his tight watch on Staglet Lorenzo Navarro allowed him to keep Navarro scores for the first 10 minutes.

 

“Grabe pumutok siya. Nakita ko sa mata niya, in the zone siya,” added Sison.

 

Then, Mark Framil took his place in third, making eight of 10 points as the Red Cubs took a 24-points, 68-44 spread.

 

Niko Abatayo and Kenneth Alas took charge on the defensive end, with Abatayo making two points and 12 rebounds, and 12 assists, and Alas drilling in seven points and 10 rebounds.

 

• Significance of the win

 

As of August 25, the Red Cubs and the Letran Squires have gained a two-game advantage in the lead over their closest pursuers, the Mapua Red Robins and the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers.

 

This was after the Letran Squires kept the JRU Light Bombers at bay, 47-39, last Aug. 22.

 

The Light Bombers (7-3) are stuck in a two-way tie in second with Red Robins, who still have unfinished business with the Arellano University Braves.

 

The Staglets, led by Jasper Magno with 13 points and  Navarro with 10, are holding on to third at 6-5.

 

Also last August 25, the Red Robins were ahead, 70-39, in the last 4:34 of the third period when rainwater leaking from the roof halted play for 30 minutes,

 

Organizers were later forced to call off the game to another date.

 

Coach JB hopes that the Red Cubs can hold on to their share of the lead.

 

At the moment, they are worried about their upcoming game with the La Salle Greenhills Greenies at 12 nn this Saturday.

 

The Greenies, with Ricci Rivero back in action, still have a fighting chance to make it to the Final Four.

 

-THE SCORES:

 

San Beda 84- Diputado 31, Decapia 10, Framil 10, Alas 7, Furaque 6, Abuhijle 6, Alfaro 5, Bordeus 4, Gelalao 3, Abatayo 2, Apolto 0, Etrata 0, Zamora 0.

 

San Sebastian 61- Magno 13, Navarro 10, Ilagan 8, Cruz 4, Bonleon 4, Paclarin 4, Malamug 4, Padigdig 4, Alfaro 3, Mercado 3, Sera Josef 2, Causon 1, Miasco 0, Bardaje 0, Ong 0.

 

Quarterscores: 21-9, 48-30, 68-44, 84-61.