Easy wins keep UM, STI up front in NAASCU

MANILA, Philippines - University of Manila and STI made mincemeat of their respective rivals with plenty to spare yesterday to remain on their lofty perches in the 10th National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities basketball tournament at the UM Gym.

Rhandelle Colina exploded with 20 points while JR Tan and Alvin Viernes fired 12 and 10 points, respectively, to carry the Hawks to a 67-47 bashing of AMA Computer U.

The Olympians, for their part, drew strength from Rama Morales’ 16-point performance as they nipped the New Era U dribblers in a one-sided 66-35 win.

The pair of rousing victories kept UM on top with a 12-1 (win-loss) record while STI kept breathing down the leader’s neck with an 11-2 slate.

Mark Mangalindan unloaded 10 points but couldn’t help the Titans absorb their seventh defeat against six victories.

Mac Sevilla, for his part, scattered 12 points but couldn’t find enough support as the Hunters sustained their eighth setback against five triumphs.