Heavy Bombers complete sweep of San Beda, capture preseason crown

Jose Rizal University continued its strong preseason run, claiming another championship ahead of the NCAA Season 102 seniors basketball tournament after defeating defending champion San Beda, 74-67, in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup finals on Thursday in San Juan.

The Heavy Bombers completed a two-game sweep of the Red Lions to secure the title, adding another preseason trophy after also winning the 2026 U-Belt Invitational Tournament last June with a victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College.

Lawrence Mangubat led JRU’s charge with 27 points, three rebounds, and three assists. The shifty guard also sealed the victory by sinking crucial free throws with 10.5 seconds remaining before a packed crowd.

"Ayaw ko lang matalo," said Mangubat, who was named Tournament MVP.

While Mangubat powered the offense, Mythical Team selection Chris Hubilla anchored the Heavy Bombers’ defense. His emphatic block on Daniel Marcelo in the final minute ended San Beda’s comeback hopes as he finished with eight points, eight rebounds, and five assists.

Head coach Nani Epondulan also received key contributions from his supporting cast. Stephen Garupil hit two important three-pointers in the fourth quarter to help JRU maintain control and finished with nine points.

Jahmir Eligado delivered a strong performance in his surprise start, posting 10 points and nine rebounds, while Defensive Player of the Year Allan Laurenaria added nine points, four rebounds, and two steals.

"From the start, yun naman ang tinatrabaho namin. Mentally naiready namin sila," said Epondulan.

Mangubat and Hubilla were joined on the Mythical Team by San Beda’s Aldous Torculas, Letran’s Titing Manalili, and University of the Philippines’ Veejay Pre.

The championship capped a dominant preseason campaign for JRU, which suffered only one defeat and won all three meetings against San Beda, including a 70-59 Game 1 victory last Tuesday.

The Heavy Bombers also captured their first Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup title after finishing as runners-up in the tournament’s inaugural edition in 2006.

Zed Etulle paced San Beda with 14 points and four rebounds, while Torculas finished with 13 points on a difficult 3-of-11 shooting performance.

The NCAA Season 102 seniors basketball tournament opens on September 13 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.