Aldous Torculas came through in the clutch as the San Beda Red Lions outlasted their historic rivals, the Letran Knights, 74-65, in the NCAA Season 102 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
With five seconds remaining and the Red Lions trailing, 61-58, Torculas drilled a three-pointer to force overtime, tying the game at 61-all.
San Beda Takes Charge in OT
In the extra period, Lawrence Hawkins was quickly fouled, making both free throws to give San Beda a 63-61 lead. Torculas then took matters into his own hands, sparking a 9-1 run alongside John Bonzalida to put the Red Lions ahead, 72-62.
John Estrada answered with a three-pointer, but the deficit proved too much to overcome as San Beda held on for the victory.
“I told them before the game, we just have to stay true to the habits that we built, from the preseason to the start of the season. Stay true to what San Beda Red Lions basketball is,” said head coach Yuri Escueta.
“Every time we play San Beda-Letran, expect both teams to give their best. Good day for basketball today,” he added.
Stars Show Out in Rivalry Clash
Torculas led all scorers with 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Dan Marcelo finished with 10 points and 3 rebounds.
For Letran, Estrada led the way with 17 points and 5 rebounds, while Kevin Santos contributed 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 blocks.
The Red Lions will next face the Perpetual Help Altas on Thursday, October 8, at 5:00 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. Earlier that day at 3:00 p.m., the Knights will try to bounce back against the Lyceum Pirates.
