Veterans Alex Desoyo and Rafael Are took turns in leading the San Sebastian College Stags to a 72-59 mauling of the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers on Tuesday in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.
Desoyo fired nine of his 12 points in the third period, with his three triples allowing the Stags to break away from a 33-all deadlock and leap to a 55-43 edge going into the fourth.
The Stags, with Jesse Sumoda topscoring with 15 points, have won their first game, after losing back-to-back matches.
Are shot nine points, including a trey with 6:56 left sending the Stags to their biggest lead, 62-49,
The JRU Heavy Bombers, who were held to their lowest output this season, fell behind in third with their 4-2 slate.
Raymond Escobido also unleashed 12 points for the Stags, who will go for their second win against the University of Perpetual Help on Friday.
Meanhile, Robi Nayve unloaded 14 of 20 game-high points in the third quarter as the College of St. Benilde took control in the second half and outsteadied the University of Perpetual Help Altas, 86-80.
Nayve’s back-to-back baskets came on top of a pivotal 14-4 run which allowed the Blazers to coast to their third triumph in six outings.