SIXTH WIN. Perpetual's Marcus Nitura goes for the basket during the game against Letran in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Wednesday (Oct. 25, 2023). The Knights won, 73-61, to boost their Final Four campaign with 6-4 slate. (NCAA photo)
MANILA – University of Perpetual Help downed Letran, 73-61, and boost its semifinal campaign in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Wednesday.
Marcus Nitura had 17 points, seven rebounds, four steals and two assists while Art Roque contributed 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block for the Altas, who also conquered the three-peat-seeking Knights, 74-59, last Oct. 15.
Jelo Razon had 13 points, five assists and five steals, while Angelo Gelsano had 10 points, all in the second half, as Perpetual improved to 4-6 for sixth place.
“Ang pinagtutuunan ko lang depensa, yung na shoot ko bonus na lang (I only focus on defense, the one I shot is just a bonus),” Gelsano said.
John Abis registered a career-high 16 rebounds to go with seven points and two blocks.
Paolo Javillonar paced the Knights with 14 points and eight rebounds followed by Vince Cuajao (11 points and two blocks), Jay Garupil (10 points, five assists and four rebounds) and Kint Ariar (seven points, six rebounds, five steals and two assists).
The loss sent Letran to the bottom of the standings at 1-9, behind Arellano (1-8) and San Sebastian (3-7).
Mapua is still on top with 8-2 despite a 61-65 loss to College of St. Benilde in the second game.
College of St. Benilde drew strength from the re-emergence of Miguel Corteza who scored 17 points and nine rebounds.
Saint Benilde is tied with Emilio Aguinaldo College and Jose Rizal U with a 6-4 slate each behind San Beda (7-2), Lyceum (7-3). (PNA)
