San Beda Emerges Victorious
After two consecutive defeats to CEU, San Beda finally cracked the Scorpions’ code. The Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda clinched an 84-76 win over CEU in a thrilling match, setting the stage for a decisive Game 3 in the 2024 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.
Coach Escueta’s Words
Red Lions’ head coach Yuri Escueta expressed relief at the victory, emphasizing the importance of belief and improved performance. San Beda, leading by 22 points at one stage, faced a tough challenge as CEU narrowed the gap to just two points in the final quarter.
Key Players and Performances
Yukien Andrada stepped up for San Beda with 14 points in the absence of James Payosing. On the other side, Franz Diaz led CEU with 22 points, supported by Daniel Marcelo with 17 points. Notably, Abdul-Wahab Olusesi, CEU’s foreign-student athlete, was limited to 9 points.
Coach Escueta’s Assessment
Coach Escueta praised the competitive nature of the game, highlighting the importance of composure and mental toughness. He acknowledged the strength of CEU’s roster, particularly recognizing the impact of Olusesi as a top-tier import player.
La Salle Advances to Finals
Eco-Oil La Salle Green Archers dominated Go Torrakku-St. Clare College with a convincing 105-70 victory, securing their spot in the D-League finals for the third consecutive year.
La Salle’s Dominance
La Salle’s consistent double-digit wins throughout the season reflect their dominance on the court. Assistant coach Gian Nazario remains focused on the task ahead, maintaining a business-as-usual approach despite their impressive performance.
Upcoming Finals
La Salle will await the winner of the San Beda-CEU decider to compete for the Aspirants’ Cup title this season, aiming for a successful title defense.
Match Scores
Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda vs. CEU
- Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda 84: Andrada 14, Tagle 13, Sajonia 10, Puno 9, Calimag Jr., 8, Estacio 8, Celzo 5, Royo 5, Calimag RC 4, Songcuya 4, Tagala 2, Gonzales 2, Jalbuena 0.
- CEU 76: Diaz 22, Marcelo 17, Olusesi 9, Bernabe 9, Puray 7, Santos 5, Gamboa 5, Serrano 2, Darbin 0, Malicana 0, Mendoza 0.
EcoOil-La Salle vs. Go Torakku-St. Clare
- EcoOil-La Salle 105: Agunanne 17, Rubico 14, Abadam 11, Austria 11, Cortez 10, Policarpio 9, Phillips 8, Alian 6, Macalalag 5, David 5, Gollena 5, Buensalida 4, Romero 0.
- Go Torakku-St. Clare 70: Ndong 18, Galang 15, Russel 5, Estacio 5, De Guzman 5, Burgos 4, Sual 4, Tapenio 3, Decano 3, Acosta 3, Cabauatan 3, Yu 2, Manzano 0.
