Art Roque jr., the new go-to guy of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Altas, came up with another great performance on Saturday in the 99th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
Roque banged in 17 points for the Altas in their 72-61 stopping of the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers at the FilOil-EcoOil Arena in San Juan.
With their first setback following two straight wins, the Heavy Bombers missed a good chance to improve on their standings, and join the College of St. Benilde Blazers at second place.
The Heavy Bombers, who now have an 8-5 win-loss card to fall to fifth spot, were limited to 11 points in the second quarter.
The Altas, on the other hand, have a 5-7 record.
Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings guard Scottie Thompson, a former Altas cager, sat on the bench, and inspired many players with his pep talk during the game, and coach Myk Saguiguit, who had taken him in as one of his assistants early in the season.
Roque scored nine points in the second quarter, including a triple in the last 6:44, as the Altas quickly broke away from a 19-16 edge at the end of the first period, to take a 43-27 spread at halftime.
The Altas enjoyed a 22-point spread, 65-43, with 8:25 to go in the final period off JP Boral’s split charity.
UPHSD 72- Roque 17, Pagaran 15, Razon 8, Abis 7, Barcuma 6, Boral 5, Omega 4, Nunez 4, Movida 3, Gelsano 3, Nitura 0, Cuevas 0, Orgo 0
JRU 61- Guiab 10, Delos Santos 8, Miranda 7, Sarmiento 6, Dela Rosa 6, De Leon 4, Benitez 4, Medina 4, Ramos 2, Pabico 2, Sy 2, Argente 2, Mosqueda 2, Barrera 2, Arenal 0
Quarterscores: 19-16; 43-27; 58-40; 72-61