HOOPS

Cardinals stun Red Lions

Ivan Suing · Sep 28, 2026, 11:28 PM

JAMAL Diaz makes his move in Mapua University’s 55-54 victory over defending champion San Beda on Monday in the NCAA Season 102 basketball tournament. — Photograph by Joey Sanchez Mendoza for DAILY TRIBUNE

Jamal Diaz played the role of a hero as Mapua University stunned defending champion San Beda University, 55-54, for its first win in the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball tournament Monday at the San Juan Arena.

After four games, the Cardinals finally broke into the win column, improving to 1-3 in Group A while handing the Red Lions a taste of their own medicine.

San Beda appeared headed for another come-from-behind victory after taking a 54-49 lead in the dying moments.

But Diaz answered with a personal 6-0 run capped by two triples, giving Mapua the decisive 55-54 lead with 12.4 seconds left.

“It just crossed my mind that I had a bad start when I was subbed in. Coach Chito (Victolero) asked me, ‘Are you getting cold feet?’ I just took the chance,” said Diaz, who finished with eight points and five rebounds.

“I worked hard for this, which is why my shots were falling. I hope our winning streak continues. We’re coming from the bottom. It feels great to have our confidence back up.”

Cyrus Cuenco led Mapua with 19 points and four rebounds, shooting 6-of-10 from the field.