Blazers boost top seed chances

College of Saint Benilde strengthened its bid for the top seed in Group A after surviving Lyceum of the Philippines University, 107-103, in Season 102 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament on Friday at the San Andres Sports Complex.

The Blazers improved to an 8-3 win-loss record, joining San Beda University and Jose Rizal University in a three-way tie atop the group standings.

John Morales came through with 18 points, five rebounds and a steal, recognizing the importance of the game in the tight race for the top spot.

“All I was thinking was that we couldn’t afford to lose this game. In the standings, everything is very tight,” Morales said.

“I knew I had to step up and contribute, since I’m one of the veterans here.”

Lyceum, which trailed by as many as 23 points, mounted a late rally in the fourth quarter and trimmed the deficit to six, 99-93.

Matthew Jucom answered with a triple to restore Saint Benilde’s nine-point cushion, 102-93, with 1:16 remaining.

The Pirates continued to fight, converting three free throws through Renz Villegas, but Ian Torres delivered a crucial three-pointer with 49 seconds left to push the Blazers ahead, 105-96, and put the game beyond reach.

Jucom led Saint Benilde with 23 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. SJ Moore added 18 points, while Jhommel Ancheta chipped in 17.