Mapua University bounced back from a sluggish start to outmaneuver Lyceum, 78-73, securing a victory in the NCAA Season 101 at the Playtime FilOil Centre on Friday. The Cardinals' triumph was a testament to their resilience and strategic adjustments.
With JC Recto's game-winning three-pointer and Yam Concepcion's swift transition from defense to offense, Mapua took control. Concepcion's 15 points, including a 6-of-8 shooting performance, complemented his four rebounds, one steal, and a block. This win solidified Mapua's position in Pool A, with a 5-5 record, following a challenging 65-75 loss to St. Benilde in a crossover match.
Recto, who contributed a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds, acknowledged the team's slow starts in recent games. He attributed this to instances of poor execution, emphasizing the need for defensive improvements in the second half.
Mapua's defense tightened in the opening period, narrowing the gap to 41-42 by halftime after early turnovers allowed Lyceum to capitalize on fastbreak opportunities. Marc Cuenco's back-to-back three-pointers in the second half ignited the Cardinals' comeback, building a 54-43 lead.
However, Jonathan Daileg's triple and tomahawk slam brought Lyceum back into the game, narrowing the gap to 64-61 late in the third quarter. Renz Villegas' jumper gave Lyceum a 69-67 lead during a crucial stretch, but Concepcion and Recto's heroics sealed the victory.
Recto highlighted the need for defensive enhancements as a team, emphasizing the importance of following the offensive flow. Mapua's total of 22 assists showcased their cohesive play. Cuenco contributed 12 points from beyond the arc, while Cyrus Nitura and Clint Escamis added 10 and seven points, respectively.
Daileg led Lyceum with 18 points, and Villegas contributed 16. The final scores were MU 78, Concepcion 15, Recto 14, Cuenco 12, Nitura 10, Escamis 7, Gonzales 6, Sapasap 5, Lazarte 4, Callangan 3, Reyes 2, Igliane 0, Delos Reyes 0; LPU 73, Daileg 18, Villegas 16, Matienzo 7, Peñafiel 7, Moralejo 5, Montaño 5, Aviles 4, Barba 4, Aurigue 3, Pallingayan 2, Versoza 2, Abregana 0, Fuentes 0, Gordon 0.
The game quarters were 21-28, 41-42, 61-55, and 78-63, showcasing Mapua's ability to overcome challenges and secure a hard-fought victory.
