MANILA – Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals powered their way into the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball quarterfinals with a twice-to-beat advantage after crushing Arellano University Chiefs, 102-93, on Monday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The crucial victory secured the Generals the second seed in Group B with a 7-6 win-loss record, behind group leader Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights.
EJ Castillo and Jude Bagay spearheaded EAC’s offensive assault with 23 points apiece, while Wilmar Oftana contributed 18 markers to help the Generals finish their elimination-round campaign on a winning note.
Castillo, who also collected four rebounds, two assists and a steal, credited the Generals’ teamwork for their decisive victory.
“Malaking factor ‘yong lahat kami nagtulungan. ‘Di naman papasok mga tira ko kung walang screen at mga pumapasa,” he said.
Despite gaining the twice-to-beat advantage, Castillo cautioned against complacency as the Generals prepare for the knockout stage.
“‘Yong panalo na ‘to, gustong gusto namin pero ‘di pa tapos trabaho namin. Kailangan pa namin mag-ready. Andiyan naman ‘yong mga coaches namin para gabayan kami,” Castillo said.
Basty Valencia led the Chiefs with 23 points, while King Vinoya contributed 22 points and nine rebounds. Renzo Abiera added 18 markers as Arellano ended the elimination round in third place in Group B with a 6-7 slate.
Meanwhile, defending champion Mapúa University Cardinals snapped a three-game losing skid with a hard-fought 71-68 victory over Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates.
Kyle Timbol delivered 20 points to lead the Cardinals, while Jamal Diaz and Russell Liwanag chipped in 13 and 12 markers, respectively.
The victory allowed Mapúa to close its elimination-round campaign with a 7-6 record and regain momentum ahead of the postseason.
The Cardinals and Pirates will renew their rivalry on Thursday, November 12, in the opening round of their Group B play-in campaign, with both teams seeking to keep their championship aspirations alive./PN
