Blue Thunders stay on track for semis seat

The Rizal Technological University Blue Thunders leaned on timely baskets by veteran playmakers Jonathan Domangcas and Mark Pagente in the endgame to pull off a crucial 70-66 triumph over the Olivarez College Sea Lions yesterday in the 16th National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) men’s basketball tournament at the Arellano University gym.

Their heroics kept the Blue Thunders on track for a semifinals slot in this cagefest backed by Mikasa and Molten Balls, www.philspike.com.

After the Sea Lions charged back from 10 points and threatened, 64-67, Domangcas scored on a jumper and Pagente split his free throw with three seconds left to seal the win for the Blue Thunders.

Rookies John Taclao and Dennis Villamor scored nine points apiece for the Blue Thunders, which stormed to their fourth win in six games.

“Nagmadali iyung mga rookies, kaya ipinasok ko na nu’ng huli iyung mga veterans para may patience sa loob,” said Blue Thunders coach Arlene Rodriguez.

Earlier, the Arellano University Baby Chiefs banked on the efforts of Simon Pagayunan in the last 22 minutes to win over the RTU Baby Thunders, 77-73, in the junior action.

Pagayunan’s triple and charity in the closing seconds allowed to the Baby Chiefs to get away with their third straight triumph. He showed the way for the Baby Chiefs with 25 points.

Last Monday, the Universal College Golden Dragons won by default over City Colleges of Manila to improve their hold on second spot at 6-1.

Jun Lumungsod hit 16 points to propel the Philippine Merchant Marine School Mariners past Technological Institute of the Philippines, 72-66.