LETRAN UPSETS BENILDE IN ALL-SGA DERBY
Colegio de San Juan de Letran handed College of Saint Benilde its first defeat of the NCAA Season 100 Seniors Basketball Tournament, edging out a nail-biting 71-69 victory on Sunday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre in San Juan City. In a game marked by physicality and drama, the score was tied at 69 when Kevin Santos emerged as the hero, sinking the game-winning basket with just 13.3 seconds left on the clock.
The play came from Nathan Montecillo, a 5-foot-10 guard from Cebu, who assisted the 6-foot-7 Santos right under the basket for the go-ahead.
"Defense was key, and I always remind the boys to stay focused. I told them to keep the game close, and we’d have a chance," said Letran's first-year head coach Allen Ricardo.
Santos's impact was felt on both ends of the court.
After a timeout, he denied a shot from Tony Ynot, forcing a pass to Anton Eusebio, who missed his attempt, contributing to Benilde's first loss in five games. “This game was a huge factor for him. He’ll definitely work harder in practice, and we’re looking forward to his contributions in our upcoming games.”
Despite struggling initially and missing his first five attempts, Santos found his rhythm just in time.
The match held special significance for both coaches, as it marked the first time Strong Group-backed teams squared off in the NCAA Seniors Basketball Tournament. Ricardo acknowledged this, saying, “He probably kept a low profile during the game, thinking, ‘May the best man win,’" in reference to Strong Group chairman Frank Lao.
Letran staged a remarkable comeback after trailing 60-46 in the final quarter. Deo Cuajao played a vital role in this turnaround, scoring 15 of his total 20 points in the closing stretch. Jimboy Estrada also contributed significantly, finishing with 17 points and five rebounds before fouling out late in the game. Ricardo encouraged Cuajao during the game, reminding him, “If there’s space, take the shot. I’ve seen you do it since you were young.”
With this victory, Letran improved its record to 3-2, sharing fourth place in the standings. The Knights are set to face Emilio Aguinaldo on Wednesday, hoping to continue their momentum.
On the other side, Benilde, led by Ynot with 15 points and a double-double from Allen Liwag (12 points and 15 rebounds), will look to bounce back against Lyceum on Friday. However, they may be without point guard Jhomel Ancheta, who received a disqualifying foul for an unsportsmanlike conduct after throwing a closed fist at Paolo Javillonar with 6:44 remaining in the second quarter.
