Stags squeak past Knights

MANILA, Philippines -- San Sebastian relied on a clutch three-pointer by Jamil Ortuoste and a steal by Rhanzelle Yong as it pulled the rug from under last year's losing finalist Letran, 85-83, to snatch the early share of the lead in the 90th NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.

Down by a point, 83-82, on a lay-up by Reneford Ruaya, Jaymar Perez found an open Ortuoste on the corner where the latter faked Ruaya into thinking that he will drive before stepping back to launch a nail a big three that sealed the win.

It was San Sebastian's first win over Letran since the former beat the latter in the second game of their Final Four duel, 63-56, three years ago, that ended a string of losses stretching to seven games.

The Knights, who led by 10 points at the start of the fourth quarter, turned the ball twice including one errant pass by Mark Cruz that was picked by Yong that sealed it.

"The rookies debuted solidly for us, that helped us a lot," said San Sebastian assistant coach Rodney Santos, who came in the customary post-game interview in behalf of Topex Robinson, who went straight to the Smart-Araneta Coliseum to catch up on Alaska's rubbermatch with Rain or Shine last night.

The Scores:

San Sebastian (85) -- Perez 20, Ortuoste 16, Dela Cruz 15, Yong 9, Fabian 7, Guinto 7, Calisaan 6, Aquino 3, Balucanag 2, Camasura 0, Pretta 0, Costelo 0.

Letran (83) -- Racal 20, Ruaya 13, Cruz 13, Quinto 12, Nambatac 11, Gabawan 8, Calvo 3, Tambeling 3, Castro 0, Saldua 0, Apreku 0, Singontiko 0, Publico 0.

Quarterscores: 23-25, 38-41, 60-70, 85-83.