College of St. Benilde Blazers Maintain Unbeaten Streak with Dominant Win Over Perpetual Help Altas
In an electrifying display of basketball prowess, the College of St. Benilde Blazers continued their unbeaten run in the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball tournament, securing a commanding 78-51 victory against the University of Perpetual Help Altas. The match took place at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan, where the Blazers showcased their depth and skill, further solidifying their position at the top of the standings with a perfect 4-0 record.
Key Players Shine for the Blazers
Leading the charge for the Blazers was Justine Sanchez, who delivered a stellar performance with 13 points. His ability to find the basket consistently was crucial in establishing an early lead. Supporting him were Winston Ynot and Gab Cometa, who contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively. Their collective efforts not only highlighted the team’s offensive capabilities but also demonstrated their chemistry on the court.
Head coach Charles Tiu expressed his concerns prior to the game, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Altas, who are helmed by the experienced Olsen Racela. “We were worried going into this game because any team that Olsen handles is a good team,” Tiu remarked. However, the Blazers’ execution and teamwork allowed them to overcome these concerns and deliver a performance that exceeded expectations.
Game Flow and Strategy
The game began with the Blazers establishing an 18-10 lead in the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the match. Their defensive strategy was evident as they stifled the Altas’ offensive efforts, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on fast breaks. By halftime, the Blazers had widened the gap to 50-29, showcasing their ability to dominate both ends of the court.
As the game progressed into the second half, the Blazers maintained their momentum, with their lead swelling to as much as 29 points in the fourth quarter. This comprehensive performance not only highlighted their offensive firepower but also underscored their defensive tenacity, making it clear that they are a formidable force in the league.
Contributions from the Altas
Despite the loss, the University of Perpetual Help Altas had notable performances from their players. Mark Gojo Cruz recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, demonstrating his versatility and determination on the court. Negrense guard Shawn Orgo also added 10 points, contributing to the team’s efforts to stay competitive.
However, the Altas struggled to find their rhythm against the Blazers’ relentless defense. Their inability to convert key opportunities ultimately hindered their chances of mounting a comeback, leaving them with a 2-2 record in the tournament.
Highlights from Other Matches
In other NCAA action, the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers found their footing with a convincing 90-74 victory over the San Sebastian College Golden Stags. Negrense Mart James Barrera played a pivotal role in this win, scoring 18 points, including four three-pointers. His performance was instrumental in helping the Heavy Bombers improve to a 1-3 win-loss slate.
Marvin Raymundo also shone brightly for JRU, finishing with a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds. His dominant presence in the paint was a key factor in the Heavy Bombers’ success. Head coach Louie Gonzalez expressed relief at the victory, emphasizing the importance of showing up and performing as a cohesive unit.
On the other side, the Golden Stags faced challenges, with Rafael Are leading their scoring efforts with 17 points. Despite their best efforts, they fell to a 2-2 record, highlighting the competitive nature of this season’s NCAA tournament.
The Road Ahead
As the NCAA Season 100 progresses, the College of St. Benilde Blazers are poised to continue their impressive run. With a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, they have established themselves as a team to watch. The Altas, while facing setbacks, will undoubtedly look to regroup and leverage their strengths in upcoming matches. The excitement of college basketball in the Philippines continues to build, promising thrilling encounters as teams vie for supremacy in this prestigious tournament.