Benilde outplays Lyceum to force 3-team logjam on top

MANILA, Philippines — College of Saint Benilde defeated Lyceum of the Philippines University, 107-103, to force a triple tie for first place in Group A in the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball tournament on Friday at the San Andres Gym in Malate, Manila. Saint Benilde improved to an 8-3 win-loss record, tied with San Beda University and Jose Rizal University, all fighting for a twice-to-beat bonus in the quarterfinals. The Blazers were led by Matthew Jucom who finished with 23 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. SJ Moore and John Morales both chipped in 18 points for the Blazers. Jhomel Ancheta made a double-double performance of 17 points and 10 assists, while Justine Sanchez added nine points and 11 rebounds for Benilde. Matthew Rubico put up a fight for Lyceum with 28 points, as Mclaude Guadaña added 14. Lyceum fell to a 4-7 and is now relegated to the play-in round.