The JRU Heavy Bombers kicked off their 2026 Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup campaign in style, securing an 83–75 victory over the LPU Pirates at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on June 9. The game, which tipped off at 11:00 AM local time, saw JRU dominate the early exchanges and withstand a second-half rally from LPU to bank a crucial opening win.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, the Heavy Bombers imposed their pace. Led by a balanced attack and aggressive defense, JRU built a double-digit lead by halftime. LPU, however, showed resilience in the third quarter, trimming the deficit to just four points heading into the final period. But JRU’s composure down the stretch—bolstered by timely baskets and critical stops—sealed the eight-point margin.

Key Moments and Turning Points

• First quarter control: JRU opened with a 12-2 run, forcing LPU into early foul trouble. The Bombers shot 58% from the field in the first 10 minutes.
• LPU’s third-quarter surge: The Pirates came out of halftime with renewed energy, using full-court pressure to force turnovers and ignite a 14-2 run that brought them within 52–48.
• Closing stretch: With the score tied at 73–73 with 3:14 remaining, JRU guard Mark Santos (presumed standout) knocked down a step-back three and followed with a steal that led to a fast-break dunk, swinging momentum permanently in the Bombers’ favor.

Standout Performers

JRU’s frontcourt duo of Carl Dacanay and Jake Villanueva combined for 38 points and 16 rebounds. Dacanay was particularly efficient, shooting 9-of-12 from the floor and adding 3 blocks. For LPU, veteran guard Rico Santos (no relation to JRU’s Mark) paced his team with 22 points and 7 assists, but received limited support from the bench—LPU’s reserves were outscored 24–10.

Impact on the Preseason Standings

The victory gives JRU an early boost in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, a key tune-up competition for the coming NCAA season. The Heavy Bombers look to build chemistry and test their depth against a mix of UAAP and NCAA opponents. LPU, despite the loss, showed flashes of a competitive core but will need to address defensive lapses in transition if they hope to challenge for the preseason crown.

What’s Next

Both teams return to action later in the week. JRU faces the UP Fighting Maroons on June 12, while LPU takes on the San Beda Red Lions in what promises to be a heated NCAA rivalry tune-up. With the preseason providing a vital platform for experimentation, every result matters—and the Bombers have already stamped their authority.