NCAA Season 91: Game review on the Arellano Braves (part 3); the best games of Guilmer de la Torre

Team Standings as of Sept. 11, 2015

W      L

SBC Red Cubs               13      0

MIT Red Robins            12      1

Arellano Braves             10      4

LPU Junior Pirates                    9     4

EAC Junior Generals       7      6

LSGH Greenies                7      6

CSJL Squires                   4      9

SSC-R Staglets                 3      10

JRU Light Bombers         1      12

UPHSD Junior Altas       0      13

(Guilmer de la Torres(7)harasses SSC ballhandler Kobe Canoy).

Guilmer de la Torre did not have to sweat it out that much when the Arellano University Braves took on the San Sebastian Staglets in their second round encounter.

He does not need to, considering that Guillmer is being rested.

(Meet the parents: the father  of Godwill Calapine (Reuvy) at left, with the mom(third from left) of Koby de Leon (Rose Anne de Leon), takes a moment for a selfie during Friday’s game. With them are other family members).

This is because they will need him for important games towards the end of the second round.

“Hindi muna ako masyadong pinaglaro. Pahinga muna. Papawis lang,” said Guilmer after he spent 17 minutes on the floor the last time he played.

(Staglet Patrick Daabay goes for a jumper past Nino Tamayo (9)).

He was still their top scorer, making 21 points to lead the Arellano Braves to a 99-72 smothering of the Staglets last Sept.11, Friday.

This is just one of the reasons why the Braves won their 10^th game in 14 matches in the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

(Supporters of the Arellano Braves watching from the upper box).

They are now on a three-game winning streak 67-80 loss to La Salle Greenhills, 67-80, last Sept. 1.

This kept the Braves in solo third with their 10-4 win-loss record.

(Carlo Abadeza(8), with teammates  Guilmer de la Torre(7) and Lars Sunga (4) in a rebound play).

One of their three wins involved the Lyceum Junior Pirates, which was a 100-77 demolition last Sept. 8.

This put the Junior Pirates in fourth at 9-5, according to the updated team standings which I looked at last Friday.

(Braves coach Tylon Darjuan calls a play(standing at center).

• Arellano Braves 99, San Sebastian Staglets 72

I got to meet some of the parents who trooped to the Arena to watch their sons play. There were sisters and brothers of players who were there to show their support.

(Staglet Joevance Agbong(9) tries to dribble his way past Koby de Leon (12)).

Most of them were seated at the upper box, enjoying the view below with members of the faculty, and some classmates who came.

There’s Mrs. Len Sunga (mom of Lars Sunga). Then there’s Reuvy Calapine(father of Godwill Calapine)  and Rose Anne de Leon (mom of Koby de Leon).

(Staglet King Pacis(5) in a rebound play with Lars Sunga (second from left) and Ira Bataller).

So, as the game got under way, the Braves came off with their usual running game, and established a 19-9 advantage in the last 4:23 of the first period.

De la Torre, who had 6 points in the first 10 minutes, gave them that seven-point lead with his drive.

(Marlon Espiritu in action).

They then took a 37-21 spread in the last 7:34 of the second period, thanks to the efforts of Anaclito Dularte.

Guillmer hardly made his presence felt in the second quarter as the Braves crew of rebounders, Sunga, Carlo Abadeza, Calapine and Dulatre took turns in the manning the board(The Braves ended up outrebounding the Staglets 55-44, with Calapine taking charge with nine, with Sunga, Abadeza and Dularte hauling down seven apiece).

(Staglet Shareef Saliddin(6) barrels past two Braves players).

The Staglets were forced to give up the ball, as they did, the Braves’ lead swelled to 19, and off Guilmer’s drive in the remaining 2:47 of the first half.

This allowed the Braves to move away by 19, 46-26.

When the third period came, de la Torre put some energy into their running game, shooting 12 points while Marlon Espiritu added 18.

The Braves went on to post a 34-point spread, 68-34, off Espiritu’s penetration.

They took a 33-point edge in the last 5:02 of the fourth after Koby de Leon’s basket.

• The best games of Guilmer de la Torre

Guilmer de la Torre is currently at no. 6 in the overall statistical race, and with his 14-game average of 20 points, 4.14 rebounds, 2.36 assists and 2.43 steals.

But, with a consistent game, he could make it to the first Mythical Five team.

Here are Guilmer’s best games:

1. 33 points. He scored this twice, the second time was against Letran following an 89-71 last July 31.
2. 33 points. The first time was on July 14 when the Braves won over EAC-ICA, 104-98.
3. 26 points. Made this with their 80-67 triumph over La Salle Greenhills.
4. 25 points. This was they outplayed the Lyceum Junior Pirates, 97-88, on July 3.
5. 22 points. Another good performance against the Junior Pirates, and a 100-77 win last Sept. 8.

The scores:

Arellano Braves 99—de la Torre 21, Espiritu 15, Sunga 14, Abadeza 9, de Leon 8, Danas 6, Calapine 5, Bataller 5, Fornis 4, Velasco 2, Torrejos 2, Tamayo 2, Bontao 0, Canete 0.

San Sebastian 72—Daabay 12, Saliddin 9, Pacis 8, Agbong 8, Jabagat 7, Cuntapay 6, Sisa 2, Arellano 2, Isidro 1, Dantis 0.

Quarterscores: 33-19, 51-30, 86-48, 99-72.

NCAA Season 91: Game review on the Arellano Braves (part 2); the best games of Carlo Abadeza

Team Standings as of Sept. 8, 2015

W      L

SBC Red Cubs               12      0

MIT Red Robins            11      1

LPU Junior Pirates                  9        4

AU Braves                     9        4

EAC Junior Generals     6        6

LSGH Greenies              6        6

CSJL Squires                 4        8

SSC-R Staglets               3        9

JRU Light Bombers       1        11

UPHSD Junior Altas     0        12

(Carlo Abadeza shoots a free throw).

The Arellano University Braves seems to have reached a turning point in season 91 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.

They firmed up their grip of the no. 3 and 4 seats in the race for the Final Four semifinals.

(Guillmer de la Torres goes for a drive while Junior Pirate Vincent Cunanan (18) looks on, stunned.

Although they have not yet officially earned the slot, they are now close to one of four Final Four seats after they swamped the Lyceum Junior Pirates, 100-77, on Sept 8, Tuesday at the Arena in San Juan.

They share third and fourth position with the same 9-4 record at that time.

(The Braves singe the school anthem).

Carlo Abadeza stood out in this game with Guillmer de la Torre.

He shot a season high (probably a careerhigh) 30 points and hauled in 13 rebounds for the Braves as they went on to register their 9^th win in 13 games.

(A triple teamed LPU player Makki Santos(10) is about to get blocked by Guillmer de la Torre, Jayson Danas (14) and Marlon Espiritu (13) looks on.

• AU Braves 100, LPU Junior Pirates

Abadeza opened up the game with 7 points, and joined hands with Guillmer de la Torre for 13 points in the first period, which the Braves took with a 25-15 advantage.

Kobe Camacho(7)  tries to dribble his way past Guilmer de la Torre (7) and Jayson Danas (14).

Teammate Marlon Espiritu capped a 9-4 win with a drive which allowed the Braves to move away from a 16-11 lead, and into a 10-point lead.

They maintained a 14-point advantage in the last 5:12 of the second period following a pair of triples which Abadeza and Espiritu unleashed.

(Kobe Camacho grabs the loose ball. In the distance, in the upper box are members of the Mapua Red Robins who are observing the game).

De la Torre shot 22 points while Jayson Danas added 13, with his jumper with 52 ticks to go in the second canto allowing the Braves to gain more distance, 37-24.

Abadeza’s penetration at the end of the first half then saw the Braves taking a 17-point lead, 49-32, at halftime.

(Lars Sunga (4) gets blocked by two LPU Junior Pirates defenders).

“Sobrang pinaghandaan ko itong game na ito. Ito ang turning point ng season namin. Dahil nag-uunahan kami sa third place,” said the 18-year old Abadeza.

The Braves got off to a fast start with their running game. They sustained their pace in the third period.

(Makki Santos (10) gets double teamed by (Guilmer de la Torre(7) and Ira Bataller (17).

They took a 22-point spread, 66-44, with 5:14 remaining off Jayson Danas attack, and with Abadeza in control of the boards with teammates Lars Sunga, de la Torre, Danas and Ira Bataller.

“Talagang pinukpok ko po sarili ko. Kasi sabi sa akin ni coach (Tylon Darjuan), ako ang energy ng team,” said Abadeza.

(Marlon Espiritu).

As the Braves limited Generoso Cecilio to four points in the third period, the Braves went on stay ahead by 18, and behind Danas’s layup.

In the fourth canto, Carlo noted that the Junior Pirates’ drive seems to have waned midway in the period.

(Vincent Cunanan).

By this time, there was no need for Abadeza to exert much effort.

With de la Torre taking control of the offensive, they were able to hold off a brief uprising from the Junior Pirates.

They were able to threaten, 68-76, off Makki Santos’ putback.

But, a triple from Espiritu and de la Torre in the last five minute gave the Braves an 85-70 spread.

• Notes on the best games of Carlo Abadeza

1. Carlo is the second performer of the Arellano Braves after he made 30 points and 13 rebounds that day(Sept. 8). That’s next to top performer Guillmer de la Torre.

2. His 2-point output that day is 11. It is no. 3 among the highest 2-point field goals listed this season.

3. He made the season’s second highest rebounding output as of Sept. 6 with 19, when the Braves defeated the UPHSD Junior Altas 86-69.

4. His is ninth overall in scoring with his average of 15.23 points.

5. Abadeza is currently the league’s no. 3 rebounder in the junior division with 11 rebounds per game.

6. Abadeza’s previous personal high score is 28. That was when the Braves demolished the Junior Altas, 85-69, on Aug. 6.

7. He also had his previous personal high of 18 rebounds in that game.

NCAA Season 91: EAC-ICA Brigadiers stun LSGH Greenies, now in contention

Team Standings

(as of Sept. 4, 2015)

W       L

SBC Red Cubs               12      0

MIT Red Robins            10      1

LPU Junior Pirates                    9      3

AU Braves                       8      4

EAC Junior Generals       6      6

LSGH Greenies                6      6

CSJL Squires                   4      8

SSC-R Staglets                3      9

JRU Light Bombers         1      10

UPHSD Junior Altas       0      12

(members of the EAC-ICA Brigadiers and the La Salle Greenhills Greenies shake hands and hug each other following a game last Friday. Sept. 4).

Veteran photographer Dante Peralta (Spin.ph) joined me as I witnessed an unfolding event last Friday.

He was teaching me how to focus and take close up shots, picked a scene concerning players involved in big scramble for a loose ball, and falling on the ground during a chase in the final minutes of the game.

(C-Jay Boado goes for a jumper).

It was happening in front of us. On manual mode, he took a photo or 2, while me in autofocus mode, I must have, but not as fast, I guess.

Anyway, as we sat on the floor at the edge of the court, I was shaking my head as I watched it happen.

(Members of the EAC-ICA Brigadiers whoop it up after the team posts a shock win over the LSGH Greenies).

Nobody thought that the Emilio Aguinaldo College-Immaculate Conception Academy Brigadiers would go this far in season 91 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.

But, after they stunned the La Salle Greenhills Greenies, 75-68, last Friday, Sept. 4, things seems to be turning around for the Brigadiers when action ended at the Arena in San Juan.

(Roland Baliquig in action).

They are now in contention for the Final Four semifinals. Both now share the same 6-6 win-loss record in fifth place. And this early in the second, anything can still happen.

The last time the Brigadiers were in contention for the semis was season 87, way back in 2011.

(Coach Ariel Sison and his assistant coach confer during the game).

That year, the San Beda Red Cubs were automatic finalists.

After finishing fourth with a 12-6 win-loss record, the Greenies knocked them out of contention with an 88-74 win in the first knockout playoffs.

(Angelo Beduria dribbles towards the midcourt line).

• EAC-ICA 75, LSGH 68

Right in the first period, the Brigadiers showed how ready they were.

(LSGH coach John Flores and his assistant coach react to a situation taking place inside the court).

Defying the Greenies’ inside game, the Brigadiers turned to their outside shooting.

They unloaded five triples out of a total of eight  to take a nine-point lead in the last 3:15 of the first 10 minutes.

(EAC-ICA’s Kerby Dulatre in an 1-on-1 with LSGH cager Alain Madrigal).

And it was, big man C-Jay Boado, who led with 19 points, handed the Brigadiers a 19-10 edge.

“Talagang pinaghandaan naming ang game na ito,” said Brigadiers coach Ariel Sison.

In the second quarter, it was Kebry Dularte’s turn to shine.

Dularte, who norms 13.42 points per game, struck with three triples to help keep the Brigadiers out of reach by 20 during another big run, this time in the second quarter.

John Mallillin (11) of LSGH gets chased down by EAC-ICA’s Mau Cruz).

Edgar Tapales, who made only two points, capped this run with a layup in the last 37 seconds, and the Brigadiers went on to gain a 49-27 halftime spread.

With 5’9 Boado keeping an eye of the prolific Ricci Rivero, the Brigadiers went on to take 59-44 edge.

(LSGH cager Miguel Lanot tries to dribble past EAC-ICA’s Mau Cruz).

They gained this 15-point lead from Boado’s split charity.

Eventually, the Brigadiers were able to outrebound the Greenies, 59-44, with little known Elron Calara taking care of the boards with nine rebounds.

(Double teamed Ricci Rivero(9) looking for an opening).

“Gumanda ang defense namin, we were able to outrebound them,” Sison went on.

Angelo Beduria, one of the four reliables of the Brigadiers, backed up Calara with 13 points and eight rebounds.

As the fourth quarter got under way, the Greenies made a huge effort to come back.

Rivero, who finished with 30 points, made 16 in the last 10 minutes.

He hit 13 points until the last 44.2 seconds to come close, 64-69.

But the Greenies ran into foul trouble afterwards.

From there, charities from Mark Castillo, Beduria and Cruz gave the Brigadiers a chance to remain out of range.

With the Brigadiers headed for a clash with the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers towards the end of the week, things look promising for as they can go up in position the standings in the future.

The scores:

EAC-ICA 75—Boado 19, Cruz 17, Dularte 13, Beduria 13, Baliquig 6, Castillo 3, Tapales 2, Kwong 2, Matilde 0, Calara 0, Tanque 0, Ligot 0, Mostoles 0, Calleja 0, Anonuevo 0.

LSGH 68—Rivero 30, Mallillin 29, Manuel 3, Madrigal 3, Pedrosa 2, Ollano 1, Herrera 0, Pagulayan 0, Velasco 0, Lanot 0, Boo 0.

Quarterscores: 24-12, 49-27, 59-44, 75-68.

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: Mapua Red Robins finish first round with 8-1 record, a 97-63 win over Letran Squires

Team Standings at the end of the first round

NCAA Season 91 Junior Basketball Tournament

W       L

1        SBC Red Cubs               9        0

2        Mapua Red Robins            8        1

3        LPU Junior Pirates                  6        3

4        AU Braves                     6        3

5        LSGH Greenies              5        4

6        EAC Junior Generals     4        5

7        SSC-R Staglets               3        6

8        CSJL Squires                 3        6

9        JRU Light Bombers       1        8

10      UPHSD Junior Altas     0        9

The Letran Squires have two prolific scorers.

And that’s Keifer Cordero and Jovito Tamayo.

(Letran’s Keifer Cordero (18) in action).

They average 14.67 and 13.56 points per game.

But, last Friday, Aug. 14, the Mapua Red Robins managed to silence both in the first period.

(Mapua’s Sherwin Concepcion).

They held Cordero and Tamayo scoreless in the first 10 minutes of action.

After that, they had little trouble posting a 97-63 smothering of the Squires at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

(Mapua’s Frank Yco(6), protecting the boards from an attack La Salle Greenhills cager).

Because of this, the Red Robins finished the first round of the 91^st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament with eight wins in nine matches.

“Late na kami nakapag-rally. Maganda rin ang start nila,” said Red Robins coach Randy Alcantara.

(Letran Squires Gabrielle Diaz (7) and Elton Villanueva (6)).
With defense focused on limiting the production of the Squires scorers, Cordero and Tamayo were only able to make 11 and seven points.

On the other hand, Sherwin Concepcion led the Red Robins with 21 points and eight rebounds.

(Mapua Red Robins’ Jasper Salenga).

The 6’3 Concepcion, who is known as a great three-point specialist for his height, banged in eight points in the first canto, and the Red Robins went on to take a 20-13 lead at the end of the period.

Another teammate took charge in scoring for the Red Robins in the next period.

(Letran’s Jayric Villanueva defending against an Arellano Braves cager).

And that’s Frank Yco, who had nine of 15 points, and this helped Mapua coast to a 43-32 halftme advantage.

Enrico Garcia, a reserve player, had his turn in the third period, making eight points and providing baskets which gave the Red Robins 64-51 spread.

(Captain Ball Michael Enriquez).

Their skipper Michael Enriquez finally took charge in the last period, hitting seven points, and joining for 15 points with Concepcion.

Together, their efforts in producing baskets, saw Mapua finish with a 34-point lead.

(Rhayniel David protecting the ball).

Alcantara said their defense on Letran’s shooters allowed them finally execute their by the fourth period.

“Dahil sa defense namin, gumana iyung fullcourt namin sa second half,” said Enriquez.

(Mapua’s Enrico Garcia (10)).

The scores:

Mapua 97—Concepcion 21, Yco 15, Enriquez 14, Garcia 12, Salenga 10, Bonifacio 9, Uson 7, Badillo 4, Junsay 4, Velvez 1, Camilossa 0.

Letran 63—Cordero 11, Villanueva 10, Diaz 9, E. Villanueva 8, David 8, Tamayo 7, Maneze 4, Felomino 2, Villarete 2, Montes 2, Caalaman 0, Olis 0, Castro 0, Petalio 0.

Quarterscores: 20-13, 43-32, 64-51, 97-63.

Varsity Sports Updates (NCAA Season 90 Game Day Review)-The Letran Squires: the rise of the fallen; Johann Rubite, Joshua Gonzales hit hard; Letran 62, LSGH 55

08 October 2014

2 p.m.,

Wednesday,

Filoil-Flying V Arena,

San Juan

NCAA Season 90

Junior Basketball Tournament

Team Standings

W   L

San Beda                   15   3

Mapua                       15   3

Letran                        13   5

JRU                           12   6

LSGH                         10   8

SSC                             10   8

Arellano                      6   12

LPU                              4   4

UPHSD                        3   15

EAC-ICA                      2   16

Great rewards start  here for the Letran Squires.

 

They earned it after the Squires won their last two games in the elimination round of the 90^th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Junior Basketball Tournament.

 

First, with their 80-75 beating of the Lyceum Philippines University Junior Pirates on Oct. 2.

(Letran’s Johann Rubite).

And then with their nail-biting 62-55 overtime stopping of the La Salle Greenhills Greenies last Wednesday, Oct. 8.

 

Their pair of wins allowed them to bag the third seeding in the Final Four semifinals.

 

It also helped them bounce back after things looked bleak when they absorbed a 42-62 setback from the Mapua Red Robins last Sept. 29.

(Letran’s Joshua Gonzales tries to dribble past LSGH’s Amando San Juan).

• Letran 62, LSGH 55, overtime

 

The Squires were trying to hold on to the lead after Jerrick Balanza popped in a basket in the last 1:14, 48-47.

 

After forcing LSGH to turn the ball over twice, the Greenies took possession in the remaining 22.5 seconds on a 25-second violation.

 

Michael de la Cruz then split his charity shots to tie the match, 48-all and send it into overtime in the last 5.4 seconds.

(Letran’s Jerrick Balanza surrounded by three LSGH defenders, John Gob (12), Ricci Rivero (9) and Mark Alcala).

The Squires could have won it in the last 1.7 second of regulation.

 

But Balanza missed a hurried attempt after receiving an inbound pass from point guard Johann Rubite.

 

LSGH could have also won it in regulation.

(Letran Squires coach Junjie Ablan).

But a late sprint for a basket by Rafael Salonga was not counted as the buzzer has already sounded when he reached the goal post.

And officials and referees needed a few minutes of deliberation to discuss Salonga’s attempt.

 

And so this question now pops in my mind, now that they have gotten over their challenges to reach the Final Four.

 

• Rubite steps up

 

In the overtime period, big man Joshua Gonzales came up with big baskets following two rough plays which saw LSGH guard Michael de la Cruz getting hurt from a fall and scoring ace Ricci Rivero receiving an elbow in the face.

 

Gonzales’ layup off Rubite’s pass and a his triple gave Letran a 53-48 advantage with 3:02 left.

 

After Greenies big guy John Gob drove in, Rubite kept Letran ahead by five in the last 2:06 with his attack to the hoop off Tommy Gedaria’s pass, 55-50.

 

LSGH then answered with de la Cruz canning in two charities, 52-55, and made attempts to close the gap further.

 

Four turnover ensued after Rivero missed a perimeter shot, Amando San Juan split his charities, and Gonzales came away with a couple of steals.

 

Rubite’s drive off Gob proved to be one of the last straws for the Squires, as they went ahead,  57-53, with 46 ticks to go, and LSGH went into foul trouble afterwards.

 

The Squires then sank three of six free throws from the stripe in the remaining time to win the game.

 

For Rubite, their win gave them the big break they need in the Final Four.

 

“Kailangan ipasok namin ang shots namin para lumayo, at mawala na ang pressure sa game,” remarked Rubite, who plans to be an engineer someday, and that is, if he can’t achieve his dream to play in the Philippine Basketball Association.

 

For coach Junjie Ablan, the Squires place in the Final Four is now secure, as they have gained the no. 3 seeding.

“Napagalitan ko nga sila eh. Kailangan matuto silang mánalo. There were chances to win with seconds to go. Pero tinatapon nila. Pero, in this game, defense naming ang nag-work,” stated Ablan.

 

-What’s in it for the rest of the Squires?

 

Much needed rest and a chance to scout Friday’s playoff for the first and second seeding in the Final Four between the multi-titled San Beda Red Cubs and the Mapua Red Robins.

 

Watching the playoff is important because they will be able to know how the losing team will play.

 

This is because the losing team will get the second seeding, and they will be able to prepare well while waiting to meet them in the Final Four.

 

The winning team, on the other hand, will face the fourth seeded Jose Rizal University Light Bombers.

The scores:

CSJL 62- Balanza 18, Rubite 12, Gonzales 10, Gederia 8, Dungan 6, Caunan 4, David 2, Ramirez 2, Magsino 0.

CSB 55- Gob 11, Rivero 11, Dela Cruz 10, Salonga 7, Madrigal 5, San Juan 5, Alcala 3, Pagulayan 2, Bunyi 1, Herrera 0, Manuel 0, Velasco 0, Ollano 0.

Quarterscores: 17-17, 29-29, 38-37, 48-48, 62-55.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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)- 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)- JRU Light Bombers cut hair short, score 3 straight wins; other Week 11 results

Team standings              W   L

Letran Squires               10   2

JRU Light Bombers       10   3

Mapua Red Robins        9    3

San Beda Red Cubs       9    3

LSGH                            8    6

San Sebastian                6    7

Arellano Braves             4    7

LPU Junior Pirates                  3    10

UPHSD                          3    10

EAC-ICA                       0    12

 

For Andrei Dada, having a clean-shaven look has definitely boosted the confidence of the Jose Rizal University Light Bombers.

 

“Ok naman bumalik ulit ang confidence ko,” said Andrei, who turns 17 next week, and on Sept. 14.

 

Dada talked about the JRU Light Bombers’ new hairdo right after the Light Bombers dispatched the Lyceum Philippines University Pirates, 67-58, on Sept. 1 Monday at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

(Andrei Dada(left) double teams LPU’s Kent Pere with teammate Christian Anore(8)).

He said the team decided to cut their hair really short right after they had beaten the Emilio Aguinaldo College-Immaculate Concepcion Academy, 71-63.

 

They wanted to make a statement in their coming games in the second round of the 90^th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament.

 

And they did.

 

((Andrei Dada (9) tries get away from the grip of LPU’s Generoso Cecilio(17)).

 

On Friday, the Light Bombers have extended their winning run to three, and after they swamped the University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas, 86-74.

 

Dada said the team felt quite low when they took a 39-47 loss to the Letran Squires in their opening game of the second round.

 

“Para kasing bumaba iyung laro namin sa second round, pagkatapos naming matalo a Letran,” remarked Andrei, a fourth year student, and one of the four leaders of the team.

(Darious Estrella (19) lays up past John Menil (15)).

 

Following their win over the Junior Altas, the JRU is now behind the Squires, who have a 10-2 win-loss record.

 

JRU is nearby with their 10-3 slate.

 

The team, according to Dada, is aware that they have a big chance at the Final Four this season.

(Darious Estrella (19) in a rebound scramble with teammate John  Sta. Maria and two other LPU defenders.

And for them to really stay in contention, they have to maintain their position in the standings.

 

• Week 11 Updates

 

It’s a quick and blurry week in the NCAA junior division this week.

 

Most of the games were no-bearing encounters, and were expected to be lopsided matches

(LPU cager Generoso Cecilio tries to score past JRU’s Joco Estrada (13)).

 

So, here’s a quick summary on how things went.

 

On Sept. 1, Monday, Dada took charge with 21 points for the Light Bombers in their 67-58 smothering of the LPU Junior Pirates.

 

Darious Estrella and Christian Anore backed him up with 11 and 10 points.

 

Earlier in the day, Guilmer de la Torre exploded with 32 points for the Arellano University Braves, who won the Junior Altas, 92-85.

 

On Sept. 3, Ricci Rivero struck with 22 points for the La Salle Greenhills Greenies, and they went on to put away the San Sebastian Staglets, 81-78.

 

The evening, the Letran Squires drew 14 points from Klyve Dungan and subdued the EAC-ICA Brigadiers, 66-42.

 

Last Friday, Sept. 5, Dennel Aguirre struck with 18 points for the Mapua Red Robins as they got past the Junior Pirates, 94-48.

 

Mark de la Virgen tallied 22 points for the Light Bombers as they won over the Junior Altas, 86-74.

 

With their 8-6 record, the Greenies stayed on track in their bid to keep their hopes alive for a Final Four seat.

 

The scores:

 

Sept. 06 matches

 

CSB 88 – Rivero 32, Gob 22, Madrigal 11, Dela Cruz 9, San Juan 8, Velasco 3, Pagulayan 2, Salonga 1, Herrera 0, Alcala 0, Ollano 0.

 

Arellano 77- Dela Torre 23, Zamora 18, Strait 15, De Lara 12, Juico 7, Enriquez 2, Clemente 0, Cabahug 0, Balbarona 0.

 

Quarterscores: 23-15, 36-34, 66-49, 88-77.

 

Sept. 05 matches

 

Second game

 

JRU 86- Garcia 23, DelaVirgen 22, Estrella 13, Dada 11, Anore 9, Anonuevo 4, Agustin 2, Sta.Maria 2, Estrada 0.

 

UPHSD 74- Chavez 30, Sison 19, Umali 9, Alarcon 6, Villaceran 6, Yaco G 2, Yaco ) 2, Balisi 0, Manaligod 0, Neri 0.

 

Quarterscores: 24-15, 41-39, 67-58, 86-74.

 

First game

 

MIT 94 – Aguirre 18, Enriquez 13, Victoria 10, Pascua 9, Lugo 8, Salenga 8, Velvez 7, Concepcion 6, Cabural 4, Calderon 3, Dela Cruz 3, Rivera 3, Russel 2, Bonifacio 0, Yco 0.

 

LPU 48 – Santos 14, Guadaña 12, Menil 5, Cecilio 5, Bautista 3, Lagman 3, Castaneda 2, Romanes 2, Agdon Jass. 1, Jungco 1, Agdon Jast. 0, Glipo 0, Pere 0, Tropicales 0, Wong 0.

 

Quarterscores: 20-9, 46-26, 72-38, 94-48

 

Sept. 3 games

 

Second  game

 

Letran 66 — Dungan 14, Balanza 12, Villasis 10, Gonzales 7, Gedaria 6, Rubite 5, Ramirez 4, Magsino 2, Marasigan 2, David 2, Dava 2, Caunan 0, Bernardo 0, Maneze 0, Reyes 0.

 

EAC42– Castillo 11, Cruz 7, Tayomora 7, Montilla 6, Catusalem 6, Cayabo 2, Beduria 2, Ligot 1, Baliquig 0, Falcon 0, Gentile 0, Justan 0, Dungca 0, Bacani 0.

 

Quarterscores: 18-9, 31-16, 45-27, 66-42.

 

First game

 

LSGH 81 — Rivero 22, Gob 17, Dela Cruz 13, Madrigal 10, Alcala 9, San Juan 6, Velasco 2, Bunyi 2, Herrera 0, Salonga 0, Manuel 0.

 

SSCR 78 — Cruz 24, Ilagan 21, Magno 14, Navarro 8, Sera Josef 3, Mercado 3, Alfaro 2, Paclarin 2, Malamug 1, Bonleon 0, Causon 0, Miasco 0, Ong 0.

 

Quarterscores: 21-14, 49-32, 61-46, 81-78.

 

Sept. 1 games

 

Second game

 

JRU 67 – Dada 21, Estrella 11, Anore 10, Estrada 6, DelaVirgen 5, Garcia 4, StaMaria 4, Anonuevo 2, Agustin 2, Astrero 2.

 

LPU 58 – Cecilio 14, Menil 14, Guadana 12, LAgman 4, Castaneda 4, Bautista 4, Glipo 4, Jassen Agdon 2, Pere 0, Jastin Agdon 0, Wong 0, Romanes 0.

 

Quarters: 22-8, 41-24, 55-38, 67-58.

 

First game

AU 92 – Dela Torre 32, Zamora 15, Juico 14, De Lara 12, Strait 12, Clemente 5, Manaloto 2, Balbarona 0, Bataller 0, Cabahug 0.

 

UPHSD 85 – Chavez 32, Sison 18, Umali 10, Villaceran 10, Tan 9, Neri 5, Manaligod 1, Alarcon 0, Balisi 0, Yaco 0.

 

Quarterscores: 25-13, 41-36, 62-61, 92-85.

 

 

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.