At A Glance
- Veteran Warren Bonifacio showed poise under pressure, towing Mapua to an 80-70 win over San Sebastian for a triumphant start in the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday, Sept. 26.
By MARK REY MONTEJO
Veteran Warren Bonifacio showed poise under pressure, towing Mapua to an 80-70 win over San Sebastian for a triumphant start in the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday, Sept. 26.

Bonifacio led the Cardinals with his offense and relentless defense on the other end, scoring 16 points that also went with eight rebounds, two blocks and three steals.
Mapua head coach Randy Alcantara reminded his wards to always stick to the game plan.
“Ini-emphasize ko 'yung coaches' plans during the huddle, 'yun nga nag-work naman, pero sabi ko nga wag kayong mawawala sa focus, sa game plan and defensive rotations,” coach Alcantara said.
Led by Alex Desoyo, the Golden Stags gained momentum early on, seizing a comfortable 23-12 in the second quarter before the Cardinals pulled the trigger and fought back with an 18-9 counter in the third frame which earned them a huge cushion at 72-54.
San Sebastian cut the deficit down to seven, 70-77, before Bonifacio took over with a dagger triple to seal the victory with 20 seconds left in the game.
JC Recto and Clint Escamis chipped in 15 and 12 points, respectively, for Mapua.
Rafael Are, meanwhile, led San Sebastian with 18 points.