MLQ trips PNTC, boosts UCAA bid

MANILA, Philippines - Manuel L. Quezon U squeaked past Philippine Nautical Training College, 78-77, to remain in contention for a semifinal berth in the 12th Universities and Colleges Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament at the Rizal Technological University gym in Mandaluyong last Monday.

Leo Tamayo completed a three-point play and Jun Bautista made a split in the closing seconds as the Stallions rallied to post their third win in six games in the event backed by Mikasa and Molten Balls.

Johnny Jasmin scored 16 points for the defending champion Olivarez College, which beat National College of Business and Arts, 93-84, in the other game.

Jasmin pumped in 10 points in the decisive fourth period, helping propel the Sea Lions to a six-game sweep of the elims to clinch the first semis slot. 

Ardy Dizon’s layup at the close of the third gave the Sea Lions a 68-62 lead while Eldridge Corpus’ twinner and split charity in the last 37 seconds sealed the win for the Sea Lions.

The RTU Blue Thunder, with a 4-2 slate, took the second Final Four berth.