The CSJL Knights edged out the San Beda Red Lions 67-63 in a tightly contested Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup clash on July 6, 2026. In a game that showcased the intensity of one of the NCAA's fiercest rivalries, the Knights used a strong second-half defensive stand to overcome a gritty Red Lions side and secure a morale-boosting victory in the early stages of the preseason tournament.

Match Overview

The game, played on Monday afternoon, saw both teams trade baskets in the opening quarter, with San Beda leveraging its trademark up-tempo offense to grab a narrow lead. However, CSJL's poise in the half-court set and timely offensive rebounding kept them within striking distance. The Knights turned up the defensive pressure after the break, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into crucial points down the stretch. Despite a late rally from the Red Lions, CSJL held firm in the final minutes to ice the game from the free-throw line.

Key Moments

• First half grind: San Beda opened a 34-31 lead at halftime behind efficient shooting from beyond the arc. CSJL struggled to contain the Red Lions' perimeter attack but stayed in the game through second-chance points.
• Third quarter surge: The Knights came out of the locker room with renewed intensity. A 10-2 run early in the third flipped the momentum, built on aggressive ball pressure and fast-break finishes.
• Clutch defense in the final minute: With the score at 65-63 and under 30 seconds remaining, CSJL forced a San Beda turnover on an inbounds play, then sealed the win with two made free throws.

Standout Players

CSJL’s frontcourt was the difference-maker, dominating the glass and scoring inside. The Knights' big men combined for over 30 points and pulled down several critical offensive boards. On San Beda’s side, the starting backcourt kept the Red Lions competitive, with one guard knocking down four three-pointers and finishing as the game’s high scorer. Yet, cold shooting in the fourth quarter (3-of-13 from the field) ultimately doomed the Red Lions’ comeback hopes.

Season and Table Impact

As a preseason competition, the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup serves as a vital tuning block for NCAA and UAAP teams ahead of their respective league seasons. For CSJL, the win over a perennial powerhouse like San Beda provides early confidence and validates their defensive schemes under pressure. The Red Lions, meanwhile, will look to tighten their late-game execution as they continue their preparation. Both teams are expected to be contenders when the NCAA season tips off later this year.