Former University of Santo Tomas standout Rhenz Abando had a terrific start with 19 points as the defending champion Letran Knights fought their way to a 67-63 triumph over the College of St. Benilde Blazers at the La Salle Greenhills Gym.
Abando’s triple in the final 1:20 that allowed the Knights to turn the table on the Blazers at the start of the 97th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament on Saturday.
“Ayaw magpatalo ng mga bata and luckily, na nag-step-up ‘yung mga veterans natin, si Fran Yu and Rhenz and ‘yung big men namin,” said Knights’ coach Bonnie Tan.
Alfonso Benson showed the way for the Blazers with 16 points and eight rebounds.
The Blazers led 33-30 in the first half, and lost their edge after the Knights made adjustments on defense.
“The boys followed ‘yung game plan na maging pasensiya at mag-adjust tayo sa mga tawag ng referees. ‘Yun ang ginawa ni Fran tsaka ng ibang players. It was tough,” added Tan.
Free throws from Mark Louie Sangalang and Yu in the closing minute allowed the Knights to gain a five-point cushion, 66-61.
The opening ceremonies honored some of the tournament’s noteworthy products, such as CJ Perez (Lyceum), Marvin Hayes (JRU), Caloy Loyzaga (posthumous, San Beda), Francis Munsayac (EAC), Maria Aresa Lipat (CSB), Michael Saguiguit (UPHSD), Freddie Webb (CSJL), coach Roger Gorayeb (SSCR), Jiovani Jalalon (AU) and Chito Victolero (MU).