LETRAN SQUIRES HOLD OFF RED CUBS TO GO 2-0

By: Miguel Marco

Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s juniors team showed grit and composure in a thrilling 63-61 win over San Beda-Rizal, maintaining their perfect record in Group B of the NCAA Season 101 Juniors Basketball Tournament on Sunday at the Filoil Centre.

Facing the intensity of the long-standing rivalry for the first time, the Squires answered when it mattered most.

Trailing 55-50, Earl Dahino ignited an 8-0 run by grabbing an offensive rebound off Ethan Egea’s miss. Key contributions from Alvin Villanueva and Mico Pascual helped swing momentum toward Letran.

In the final seconds, Andrei Ugaddan knocked down a corner three to bring San Beda within one.

The Red Cubs had a chance to take the lead, but after fouling Pascual with just two seconds remaining, Letran calmly converted one of two free throws to seal the victory.

Egea led the way with 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Villanueva added nine points and four boards, while Pascual made five of his seven points from the line.

Dahino, Justin Cargo, and Travis Pascual also made key contributions in the tightly contested game.

On the other hand, the Knights’ senior squad struggled to find rhythm in their own Group B clash, falling 68-58 to San Beda.

Jonathan Manalili did his best to keep Letran in contention with 13 points, six assists, and two steals, while Deo Cuajao returned from illness to chip in 10 points.

With the loss, Letran’s seniors drop to 0-2 in the group and will aim to recover when they face Benilde on Wednesday.