NCAA: JRU goes back-to-back, Mapua sends CSB to 1-3 start

MANILA, Philippines—Jose Rizal University made it back-to-back wins after beating Emilio Aguinaldo College, 77-71, in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at San Juan Arena.

The Heavy Bombers’, who improved to 3-1 for the season, motivation turned out to be that stinging loss against the Season 98 finalists Blazers.

“After that loss [against College of St. Benilde], it was a really hard day and after that, all we did was just trust in each other, especially since our next two games were not easy,” said JRU coach Louie Gonzales, whose squad beat Mapua on Sunday, in Filipino.

“Good thing is, we got lucky against Mapua and tonight as well. We’re just getting all these from all the hard work we’ve been putting in since the preseason.”

Agem Miranda served as the X-factor for JRU with 20 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals. Marwin Dionisio also had himself an all-around game with 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Joshua Guiab, meanwhile, finished with a rebound shy of a double-double of 13 points and nine boards.

Nat Cosejo also had a near double-double with 15 points and nine rebounds for the Generals, who slid to a 2-1 card. Ralph Robin also contributed 12 points built on three made triples in a losing effort.

Earlier, Mapua stunned the Blazers, 75-71.

The Cardinals, who climbed to 3-1, took advantage of reigning league MVP Will Gozum’s early exit due to fouls to improve to a 3-1 record.

Gozum tallied 11 points, five rebounds and five turnovers as the Blazers dropped to 1-3. Miguel Corteza and Migs Oczon added 15 and 14 points.

Paolo Hernandez exploded for a 22-point performance to power the Cardinals to victory. Clint Escamis and Jopet Soriano also poured in 12 points each in the win.