Janti Miller’s exceptional scoring was again on full display during San Beda’s 79-70 win over reigning champions Mapúa, firing 20 points on an efficient 65% field goal shooting as he gave Mendiola’s red-and-white a lift for their fifth win of the season on Friday. 

Miller collected his game-high 20 markers on a 7-of-11 shooting clip, tallying 16 all in the first half to dictate the scoring pace for the Red Lions. 

The 21-year-old prized recruit also added two boards, a steal, and an assist.

Nygel Gonzales also had impactful minutes for the Yuri Escueta-coached squad, racking up 11 points, six boards, and two dimes, while Jomel Puno had an all-around showing with nine markers, six rebounds, and four assists. 

The Red Lions were in control for most of the game, even leading by as big as 19 at some point in the second frame, as the Season 99 champions also got sizable help from Yukien Andrada and Bismarck Lina who scored eight points apiece in the winning effort. 

On the other side, sharp shooter Cyrus Cuenco top-scored for the Cardinals with 13 points, while rookie gunner EJ Sapasap had 11 and top recruit Cyril Gonzales had 10. 

Last year’s Finals MVP Clint Escamis was virtually a no-show for the second consecutive game now, only registering a measly two points– both coming from free throws– as he misfired all his shots from the field.

In Escamis’ last two outings, the Season 99 Rookie-MVP has been held to only six points on 1-of-11 shooting from the field. 

San Beda maintains its hold of the top spot in Group B with a 4-1 tally, while Mapúa remains solid in second place in Group A with a 3-2 record.