SAVIOR. Jearolan Omandac of the Lyceum of the Philippines University makes a shot during the game against the College of St. Benilde in the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Friday (Nov. 10, 2023). Omandac's three-pointer helped the Pirates conquer the Blazers, 84-81, and gain a share of the lead with the Mapua Cardinals. (Photo courtesy of NCAA)
MANILA – The Lyceum of the Philippines University relied on Jearolan Omandac's three-pointer to beat the College of St. Benilde (CSB), 84-81, and gain a share of the lead with Mapua in the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Friday.
Omandac, who finished with nine points, carried the Pirates to their fifth consecutive win and 11th overall in 14 games.
“Tiwala sa sarili ko na kahit na puro mintis sa first half, tiwala ako papasok (Confidence in myself that even if I missed all my shots in the first half, I'm confident that it's going in),” the sophomore from Tagum, Davao del Norte said.
LPU coach Gilbert Malabanan acknowledged Omandac's effort, adding that defense was also key to the win.
“Our priority is defense. We can't shoot if we don't have stops," Malabanan said.
Enoch Valdez led Lyceum with 15 points, six rebounds, and three steals.
“He’s playing his last year and he’s going to do everything to help this team win,” Malabanan said on Valdez's performance.
John Bravo contributed 14 points and two blocks, John Barba added 13 points while Shawn Umali had nine points for Lyceum, which trailed 43-45 at halftime.
Miguel Oczon had 19 points, seven rebounds, and two assists for CSB, which remained in third place at 8-5.
Ray Carlos chipped in 16 points and five rebounds followed by Will Gozum with 13 points and Miguel Corteza with 11 points and six rebounds.
Mapua took the solo leadership after posting an 83-77 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College on Wednesday. (PNA)
