San Beda University head coach Boyet Fernandez credited his bench players for stepping up in their 82-68 victory over Arellano University in the NCAA Season 97 men's basketball tournament on Sunday.
Starter James Kwekuteye still led the way with 14 points, four rebounds, and one steal, but several other Red Lions showed up to contribute as they improved to 5-0.
Providing the biggest spark was Gab Cometa who poured in 11 markers to go with one rebound, and one assist while other reserves like Winston Ynot, Rhayyan Amsali, and Justine Sanchez combined for 25 points.
Overall, the San Beda bench outscored their Arellano counterparts, 41-24.
"I give credit to my bench because they really stepped up in the second quarter, especially Cometa, Justine Sanchez, and JV Gallego," said Fernandez.
"Hopefully as we look forward to our next games, I do expect my bench to step up and support the starting unit."
Fernandez said they simply pushed the ball and took advantage of the foul trouble of Arellano star Justin Arana, who sat out the second quarter after three fouls in the opening period.
"Our game plan really was to push the ball early [and] run the game because it seems that in the first quarter Arellano's game plan was just to walk the ball and try to play us half court," added the mentor.
"But again, I give credit to coach Cholo and the Arellano Chiefs because we were up by 22 and they came back in the third quarter."
—JMB, GMA News
