Letran Fends Off EAC to Extend Winning Streak to Four

NCAA Letran found its rhythm just when it mattered most, edging Emilio Aguinaldo College 71-65 to stretch its winning streak to four games in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup presented by ABC Tile Adhesive on Tuesday in San Juan.

George Diamante came up big in the clutch, setting up Syrex Silorio for a pivotal three-pointer and finishing a decisive 10-2 run with a steal and layup that put the Knights ahead 66-63 with 1:49 remaining.

Diamante contributed four points, eight rebounds, and two steals, complementing strong performances from lead guards Jimboy Estrada, who posted 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists, and Titing Manalili, who added 11 points, six rebounds, and six assists.

“The players are showing that resolve. Even if there’s a momentary lapse, they pull through just in time to secure the win. Part of the game plan is still giving opportunities to my new guys, and they delivered,” said coach Allen Ricardo, as Letran improved to 4-1.

Aaron Buensalida also stepped up, taking advantage of extra minutes with Kevin Santos resting, recording a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds.

MJ Raymundo led EAC, who fell to 1-1, with 12 points and four rebounds.

Elsewhere, Mark Gojo Cruz delivered a clutch buzzer-beater to lift Perpetual over Arellano University 78-76 in overtime. After missing a potential game-winner in regulation, the third-year guard redeemed himself, scoring off an assist from LA Casinillo in extra time to secure the Altas’ first win after starting the preseason 0-2.

“Initially, the play was designed differently, but Mark read the defense and took the shot when he was open,” said coach Olsen Racela. Gojo Cruz finished with 15 points, three assists, and two rebounds, while Casinillo added 12 points, three rebounds, and two assists. Shawn Orgo contributed 10 points.

Despite Arellano’s third straight overtime loss, the Chiefs pushed the Altas to the limit, forcing 25 turnovers and earning 44 free-throw attempts, converting only 24. Renzo Abiera led the winless team (0-3) with 19 points and four rebounds.

In UAAP action, University of Santo Tomas dominated Adamson University 81-59. The Growling Tigers’ balanced offense and strong second-unit contributions led the way, with sophomore Koji Buenaflor adding 11 points and six rebounds, and Gelo Crisostomo and Amiel Acido scoring 10 points each. Jonah Precious was Adamson’s lone standout with 10 points and five rebounds.

Jose Rizal University kept its unbeaten streak alive, defeating Lyceum of the Philippines University 83-75. Rookie Jalen Garcia led the Heavy Bombers with 17 points and three assists, Chris Hubilla recorded a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds, and Sean Salvador added 12 points, including four three-pointers. Roger Ondoa went 5-for-5 from the field for 16 points, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Pirates (1-4) from suffering their third consecutive loss.