NCAA: Renz Villegas tows LPU past San Sebastian in narrow escape

Renz Villegas led Lyceum of the Philippines University past San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 78-77, in a close escape on Friday in the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Centre.

Villegas delivered the crucial game-winner for the Pirates, who prevailed despite head coach Jamike Jarin being ejected in the second quarter and team captain Genesis Aviles being taken off the court after an apparent knee injury in the third quarter.

The Golden Stags were seconds away from securing their first win, leading 77-76 with three seconds left after Ralph Gabat completed a three-point play. However, Villegas came to the rescue, scoring the winning basket to seal the victory.

Villegas finished with 17 points, four assists, two rebounds, and a steal, while Mclaude Guadaña added 13 points, four rebounds, two steals, and an assist as the Pirates improved to 3-5.

Gabat tallied 22 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and a steal, while Niel Castor chipped in 13 points as the Golden Stags remained winless after eight games.

Scores:

LPU 78 - Villegas 17, Guadana 13, Daileg 10, Penafiel 9, Aurigue 7, Ondoa 7, Fuentes 6, Rubico 4, Matienzo 3, Gordon 2, Nocum 0, Aviles 0, Manuel 0, Almario 0, Cardinas 0.

San Sebastian 77 - Gabat 22, Castor 13, Ynot 9, Alforque 9, Bacani 6, Suico 6, Muktimar 6, Ricio 2, Velasco 2, Dimaunahan 2, Cuya 0, Segovia 0, Barroga 0.

Quarters: 20-23, 38-38, 63-58, 78-77.

—JKC, GMA News