NCAA: San Beda bounces back in crossover opener, routs San Sebastian

San Beda University bounced back in its opening game of the crossover phase of the NCAA Season 102 preliminary round as the Red Lions routed San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 85-55, on Friday at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.

The Golden Stags kept pace with the Mendiola-based squad early, trailing by just five, 41-36, at halftime. However, the defending champions pulled away in the second half, limiting San Sebastian to just 19 points, including only seven in the fourth quarter, to cruise to the victory.

Aldous Torculas led the Red Lions’ second-half surge, scoring seven of his 18 points after the break. He also finished with six rebounds, two assists, and a steal.

Jimmy Reyes added nine points, while Jomel Puno, JC Bonzalida, and Daniel Marcelo chipped in eight points apiece in San Beda’s balanced scoring effort.

Caesleyh Bacani led San Sebastian with 15 points, while Nurben Muktimar added 11.

With the win, San Beda improved to 3-2, while San Sebastian remained winless through five games.

Scores:

San Beda 85 - Torculas 18, Reyes 9, Puno 8, Bonzalida 8, Marcelo 8, Lina 7, Jalbuena 5, Etulle 5, Dabao 5, Estacio 3, RC Calimag 3, Sarigumba 3, Hawkins 2, R. Calimag 1.

San Sebastian 55 - Bacani 15, Muktimar 11, Ricio 9, Velasco 4, Gabat 3, Alforque 3, Cuya 3, Segovia 2, Kitane 2, Suico 2, Barroga 1, Castor 0, Salvo 0, Chuidian 0.

Quarters: 23-21, 41-36, 62-48, 85-55.

—JKC, GMA News