By MARK REY MONTEJO

Jose Rizal University recovered from a lethargic start and spoiled Rensy Bajar’s debut as Letran’s new head coach with a stunning 85-79 overtime win in the opening day of the 2023 NCAA Season 99 on Sunday, Sept. 24, at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Marwin Dionisio and Agem Miranda showed the way for the Heavy Bombers and also took advantage of the Knights’ 29 turnovers that translated to 35 points for the host school.

Those miscues spelled the difference in the extra period, with Dionisio capitalizing on the blunders with a triple on the other end to give JRU a 76-73 headstart.

Letran’s Kurt Reyson and Kobe Monje answered back and made it 77-76 in favor of the defending champions, but Miranda drained two consecutive baskets to take an 80-77 advantage, a lead the Bombers wouldn’t put to waste up to the final buzzer. 

Reyson topped the scoring the Knights with 18 points while Kevin Santos added 16.

Rookie Deo Cuajao, who drained the game-tying triple for Letran, finished with 12 points.