Mapua and University of Perpetual Help pulled off impressive victories on Wednesday to remain unshakeable at the helm in NCAA Season 99 junior basketball at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
The Red Robins relied on their rock-solid, nearly impenetrable defense in smashing the Jose Rizal U Light Bombers, 72-57, while the Junior Altas went to defense when their offense turned sour and blasted the San Beda Red Cubs, 78-56, in claiming their fourth win in a row.
Jan Pagulayan sizzled for 19 points while Mark Gojo Cruz pulled off a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds in sustaining UPHSD’s Cinderella run and putting it into good position at earning a crack at its historic NCAA championship.
Lebron Jhames Daep wreaked his own havoc in finishing with 10 points, six boards, three steals and a block.
San Beda, which shocked Letran in its previous outing, stumbled to a 2-2 record.
Mapua, eyeing its 21st crown, drew a 25-point explosion from Lawrence Mangubat while continuing to rely on its league’s best defense in claiming another win and staying unbeaten.
JRU dropped to 1-2.
The Junior Blazers, mentored by Ren Ren Ritualo, edged the Arellano U Braves, 85-81, for their first win after suffering three straight defeats to start the season.