MANILA – Negrense forward Raffy Celis powered the College of St. Benilde Blazers to sole leadership in Group B of the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament after a commanding 73-65 victory over the Jose Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Celis showcased his all-around brilliance with 20 points, five rebounds, four steals, and two assists, leading the Blazers to a 3-1 win-loss card — their best start in recent seasons. Justine Sanchez added 17 points and six boards to help secure CSB’s third straight win.
The Blazers controlled most of the match, taking a 22-19 lead after the first quarter before stretching it to 42-34 at halftime. JRU managed to cut the deficit to four, 55-51, entering the final frame, but Celis delivered the knockout blow with a late basket that pushed Benilde ahead, 73-63, sealing the deal.
Sean Salvador led the Heavy Bombers with 13 points, while Sanlea Peñaverde added 11 as JRU dropped to a 2-2 record.
Meanwhile, defending champion Mapua University Cardinals returned to form with a 70-49 demolition of San Sebastian College-Recoletos behind the efforts of transferees Ivan Lazarte and Earl Sapasap.
Lazarte, a former UST Tiger, tallied 14 points, while Sapasap contributed 11 points and seven rebounds, helping Mapua bounce back from a tough loss to the University of Perpetual Help Altas and improve to 3-1.
Their breakout performances compensated for the off night of Mapua’s stars Clint Escamis, Cyril Gonzales, and Cyrus Cuenco, who combined for only eight points.
For San Sebastian, Ian Cuajao finished with 14 points, and Reggz Gabat had 10 as the Golden Stags slipped to 1-3./PN
