San Beda University clinched the bronze medal in the NSAC World Invitational after fending off Jose Rizal University (JRU), 70-69, on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

It was a measure of redemption for the reigning National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) champions, who lost to the Heavy Bombers in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup last June.

The Red Lions appeared headed for a comfortable victory after taking a 70-64 lead with 44 seconds remaining. However, a three-pointer from Sanlea Peñaverde sparked a 5-0 run that brought JRU to within a point.

Daniel Marcelo secured the inbound pass from Aldous Torculas in the dying seconds to preserve the victory for San Beda.

Torculas led the Lions with 15 points and four rebounds, while Jimmy Reyes added 12 points and four assists.

Peñaverde finished with 18 points and five rebounds for JRU, but his effort was not enough to prevent the Heavy Bombers from settling for fourth place.

Meanwhile, Formosa Tiger Kings defeated Tenri University, 80-75, to finish fifth in the tournament presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.