Mapua's Clint Escamis regains his old form. (NCAA Images)
Defending champion Mapua continued its fine start in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament after surviving Arellano, 90-87, at the San Juan Arena on Saturday, Oct. 4.
Clint Escamis, last season’s Finals MVP, regained his fiery form and exploded for 29 points to go along with three rebounds, three assists and three steals, making up for his lackluster performance in their last game over the Lyceum Pirates where he was limited to only eight points.
“Gusto ko lang talaga makabawi from that game na ‘yon,” Escamis said.
“I know my teammates got my back but I know I still needed to perform today, lead and facilitate for the team to serve as a good example,” he added.
Cyrus Cuenco also stepped up for Mapua with 14 points, while Cyril Gonzales and Cyrus Nitura chipped in 12 and 10 points, respectively.
Basti Valencia and Renzo Ablera scored 13 and 12 points, respectively, in a losing cause for Arellano.
The scores:
MAPÚA 90 – Escamis 29, Cuenco 14, Gonzales 12, Nitura 10, Sapasap 9, Reyes 5, Concepcion 5, Lazarte 4, Recto 2, Gulapa 0, Igliane 0, Delos Reyes 0, Ryan 0.
ARELLANO 87 – Valencia 13, Abiera 12, Hernal 11, Ongotan 10, Libang 10, Camay 8, Cabotaje 6, Borromeo 5, Vinoya 4, Geronimo 4, Demetria 4, Acop 0, Buenaventura 0, Miller 0.