The Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Pirates kicked off their Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup campaign with a hard-fought 82–75 victory over the Arellano University Chiefs on May 20, 2026, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. In a contest that showcased the intensity of NCAA Philippines rivalries carried over into the preseason, the Pirates used a decisive third-quarter run and balanced scoring to hold off a resilient Chiefs squad.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the game looking to establish early rhythm ahead of the upcoming NCAA season. LPU, known for its disciplined system under head coach Gilbert Malabanan, put together a complete performance against a Chiefs side that never backed down. The Pirates seized control with a 12–2 spurt late in the third period, turning a 52–51 lead into a 64–53 advantage going into the fourth quarter. The Chiefs trimmed the deficit to six with under three minutes remaining, but LPU’s veteran composure at the free‑throw line sealed the result.

Key Moments

• First‑half momentum: Arellano matched LPU bucket for bucket in the opening half, trailing just 38–36 at the break after forward Jielo Razon hit a buzzer‑beating triple.
• Third‑quarter surge: LPU guard John Barba sparked the decisive run with seven quick points, including a transition layup and a step‑back jumper that forced an Arellano timeout.
• Late Chiefs push: Arellano guard Adrian Abaca scored eight of his team‑high 18 points in the final six minutes, but the Chiefs could not get stops when they needed them most.
• Free‑throw finish: LPU went 8‑of‑10 from the stripe in the last two minutes, with Barba and center Enoch Valdez each knocking down four.

Tactical Story

LPU’s half‑court defense was the difference. The Pirates packed the paint to limit Arellano’s drives and forced the Chiefs into contested jumpers. Offensively, LPU spread the floor with three‑point threats, creating driving lanes for Barba (22 points, 5 assists) and allowing Valdez (14 points, 11 rebounds) to operate inside. Arellano coach Cholo Martin adjusted with a zone defense in the second half, but LPU’s ball movement—recording 17 assists on 29 field goals—proved too efficient. The Chiefs shot just 38% from the field and turned the ball over 14 times, many of those leading to LPU transition scores.

Standout Players

• John Barba (LPU): The guard’s 22‑point, 5‑assist, 4‑steal line earned him game MVP honors. He consistently broke down the Chiefs’ defense and ignited the third‑quarter run.
• Enoch Valdez (LPU): A double‑double (14 points, 11 rebounds) anchored the Pirates’ interior presence and provided key second‑chance opportunities.
• Adrian Abaca (Arellano): The Chiefs’ leading scorer poured in 18 points on 7‑of‑16 shooting, including four three‑pointers, and added 4 assists in a losing effort.
• Jielo Razon (Arellano): The forward contributed 12 points and 6 rebounds, but foul trouble limited his minutes in the second half.

Preseason Implications

While the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup is primarily a development tournament, the victory gives LPU early bragging rights over an NCAA rival. For the Pirates, the win showcases their depth and defensive identity ahead of the regular season. Arellano, meanwhile, can take heart from their competitive first half but will need to address their offensive consistency and turnover issues. Both teams continue their preseason schedules later this week, with LPU facing the San Beda Red Lions and Arellano taking on the College of Saint Benilde Blazers.