The CSJL Knights staged a late rally to edge out the LPU Pirates 86-83 in a thrilling Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup encounter on June 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The Knights erased a double-digit deficit in the final quarter to steal the victory and improve their preseason momentum heading into the regular season.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the game looking to sharpen their rotations and test new chemistry. The LPU Pirates controlled much of the first three quarters with aggressive defense and balanced scoring, building a lead that reached as high as 12 points. However, the Knights refused to fold, tightening their full-court press in the fourth quarter and capitalizing on several Pirate turnovers.

The final period saw CSJL outscore LPU 28-19, with sharp shooting from beyond the arc and clutch free throws in the closing seconds sealing the comeback. Despite LPU's efforts to tie the game in the last minute, a key defensive stop and a pair of made free throws gave the Knights the three-point win.

Key Moments

• Third-quarter dominance: LPU opened a 12-point cushion midway through the third, looking poised to run away with the game.
• Knights' fourth-quarter surge: CSJL opened the final frame on a 10-2 run, cutting the deficit to single digits within three minutes.
• Go-ahead triple: With 2:14 left, a Knights guard drained a deep three to give CSJL its first lead since the opening quarter.
• Clutch free throws: After LPU closed to within one point with 12 seconds left, CSJL calmly sank two foul shots to make it 86-83. LPU's final heave from half court missed.

Standout Players

• CSJL Knights: The team's primary scorer finished with 24 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter. Another key contributor hauled in 11 rebounds and recorded three blocks.
• LPU Pirates: A young guard led all scorers with 27 points on efficient shooting, but received limited support in the final period. The Pirates' frontcourt grabbed 15 boards but struggled to contain the Knights' pick-and-roll in crunch time.

Season Impact

Though the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup does not count toward the official standings, both teams view this tournament as critical preparation. For CSJL, the come-from-behind victory showcases their resilience and will give them confidence heading into the NCAA season. LPU, meanwhile, will look to address late-game execution and defensive lapses after letting a comfortable lead slip away. The rematch between these two squads in the regular season is already generating buzz.