YNOT, ANCHETA LEAD BLAZERS TO THRILLING OT WIN OVER SAN BEDA
In a thrilling overtime clash, Tony Ynot and Justine Sanchez led the College of St. Benilde Blazers to a narrow 70-65 victory over defending NCAA champion San Beda University in the NCAA Season 100 Seniors Basketball Tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
Despite a missed game-winning layup by Allen Liwag in regulation, Jhomel Ancheta and Liwag stepped up in overtime to lift the Blazers past the Red Lions. Ancheta, a former CEU Scorpions standout, opened the extra period with a crucial three-pointer and a floater, giving Benilde a five-point lead. Ynot then sank a dagger three to extend the Blazers' advantage to seven, 68-61, with just under three minutes left.
Liwag added a layup, and Sanchez sealed the win with a key steal in the final moments. San Beda struggled at the free-throw line in overtime, converting just 3-of-7 attempts, with James Payosing missing three critical shots that could have shifted the game.
“We executed as planned and kept our composure. I’m proud of the way we handled the pressure. The basketball gods were on our side today, especially in overtime,” said Benilde head coach Charles Tiu.
In regulation, Ancheta hit a clutch three-pointer to give Benilde a two-point lead, but San Beda captain Yukien Andrada responded with a layup to force overtime.
Despite their revamped roster, the Blazers dished out 17 assists, eight more than San Beda, showcasing their strong ball movement.
Ancheta led Benilde with 14 points, five assists, and two rebounds, while Ynot added 12 points. Liwag posted a double-double with 12 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks. Facing their former team for the first time, Gab Cometa contributed six points, while Sanchez was held to just three on 1-of-4 shooting.
With victories over both of last season's finalists, Mapua and San Beda, Benilde’s redemption tour is off to an impressive 2-0 start. They aim to keep the momentum going against Emilio Aguinaldo College on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at the same venue.
