Bombers blast Altas in opener

Jose Rizal University, responding well to new coach Chris Calilan, opened its campaign in the 80th NCAA basketball tournament with a 72-61 whipping of host University of Perpetual Help-Dalta System at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum yesterday.

Jenciano Domangcas and Michael Magtahao paced the Heavy Bombers with 19 and 13 points, respectively, although veteran guard Wynsjohn Te delivered the killer blows on the Altas.

In his farewell season with the team, Te exploded for seven of his 10 points in a decisive fourth-quarter attack that led to the Heavy Bombers’ winning debut under the tutelage of Calilan.

"Magandang simula," said Calilan, a member of the last Jose Rizal team that ruled the NCAA in 1972. Calilan’s teammates then included brothers Philip and David Cezar and future actor-comedian Jimmy Santos.

"Sana mag-champion din ito kagaya noong 1972 team namin," added the former Purefoods and Barangay Ginebra mentor who last coached a collegiate team when he steered the Ateneo Eagles to the 1987 UAAP crown.

Jose Rizal dictated the tempo early on as it led by nine points thrice in the second quarter before Vladimir Joe and Marcel Cuenco teamed up to close the gap, 32-35, at the half.

In the second game, San Beda made up for its lack of size with speed, outside shooting and a collective defensive effort as it stunned San Sebastian, 76-68, to give new coach Nash Racela his first win as collegiate mentor.

Dom Javier took over as the Altas surged ahead, 42-38, but the Heavy Bombers, behind clutch baskets by Domangcas, drew even at 48-all at the end of the third quarter.

Then, Te rose to the occasion, making his own show as the Heavy Bombers outfought the Altas in the payoff p