MANILA — Arellano University made quick work of University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, cruising to an 88-65 victory Friday in the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball tournament at the Philsports Arena.
The Chiefs seized control from the opening tip, launching an 18-9 run before closing the first quarter with a commanding 31-15 advantage.
Arellano continued its onslaught early in the second period, scoring 13 of the first 17 points. Leyton Buenaventura’s jumper with 5:39 left in the half stretched the Chiefs’ lead to 44-19.
Perpetual Help struggled to find an answer as Arellano maintained a comfortable cushion throughout the second half, improving to 3-0 in Group B play.
“The preparation ‘yong pinakanagbunga, so we prepared to win and ‘yon lang talaga ‘yon. We stayed consistent,” Arellano coach Chico Manabat said.
“Tinulungan namin isa’t isa ‘yong mga bata at nag-improve sila.”
King Vinoya spearheaded the Chiefs with 15 points, while T-Mc Ongotan delivered another solid all-around performance with 13 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Yuan Camay and Basty Valencia added 10 points each, while several other Arellano players contributed to the balanced offensive effort.
Juan Tulabot paced Perpetual Help with 16 points and five rebounds. LA Casinillo added 14 points and Mark Gojo Cruz chipped in 11 as the Altas slipped to 2-2.
Arellano led 31-15 after the opening period, 53-35 at halftime and 65-49 entering the fourth quarter before completing the 23-point victory.
ia/nf
