LOOKING FOR A PLAY. Mapua University's Clint Escarmis (right) tries to go past an Arellano University player during the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 100 men's basketball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Wednesday (Oct. 2, 2024). The Cardinals won, 77-71. (Contributed photo)
MANILA – Mapua University relied on Clint Escarmis to prevail over Arellano University, 88-81, in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 100 men's basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Wednesday.
Escarmis scored 12 points in the fourth quarter, including two triples, as the Cardinals secured their sixth win against two losses to remain in second place behind College of Saint Benilde (6-1).
The reigning MVP finished with 15 points, eight assists, five rebounds and four steals.
“I'm thankful to the coaches for allowing me to remain in the game even if I was missing my shots," said Escarmis. "I'm thankful that I was able to deliver for the team."
Chris Hubilla, who also had 15 points, made eight rebounds, while Mar Cuenco contributed 10 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals for Mapua, which led 41-37 at halftime but trailed 51-54 at the end of the third quarter.
Lawrence Mangubat had nine points, four rebounds and two steals, while rookie Yam Concepcion had seven points and 10 rebounds.
Lorenz Capulong finished with 19 points and six rebounds, Renzo Abiera had 18 points, including four triples, while Jerico Camay added 11 points for the Chiefs, who joined the San Sebastian College Recoletos Stags at the bottom with two wins against six losses.
In the other game, Lyceum of the Philippines University defeated University of Perpetual Help, 64-62.
Renz Villegas and Jonathan Daileg scored 18 and 10 points, respectively, while Neil Moralejo added eight points, including a three-pointer in the final five seconds as the Pirates tied their opponents at 4-4 for fourth place. (PNA)
