JRU Secures Group A Leadership with Convincing 85-79 Victory Against Benilde

The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Blazers faced the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers in a crucial NCAA Season 102 Group A encounter, with both teams battling for playoff positioning and the opportunity to secure the top seed heading into the quarterfinals.

The game opened with Benilde displaying aggressive offense and solid ball movement. Led by timely baskets from Jhommel Ancheta, SJ Moore, and Josh Cajucom, the Blazers established an early advantage. However, JRU stayed within striking distance through the efforts of Jamhir Eligado and Lawrence Mangubat. Benilde managed to end the first quarter ahead, 23-20.

In the second quarter, the Heavy Bombers shifted momentum in their favor. Behind the offensive leadership of Lawrence Mangubat, JRU outscored Benilde 25-16 in the period. The Heavy Bombers effectively attacked the basket and capitalized on defensive stops, turning a three-point deficit into a 45-39 halftime lead. Benilde struggled to maintain its offensive rhythm as JRU's defensive pressure intensified.

JRU continued to control the contest in the third quarter. Despite efforts from Mowell Morales, Justine Sanchez, and Ian Torres to keep Benilde within reach, the Heavy Bombers consistently found answers on offense. Mangubat remained a major scoring threat while receiving valuable support from Eligado and the rest of the JRU rotation. By the end of the third quarter, the Heavy Bombers had extended their lead to 69-59

Facing a double-digit deficit entering the final period, the Blazers mounted a determined comeback. Benilde increased its defensive intensity and trimmed the gap to as close as three points in the closing minutes. Critical baskets from Torres and Morales kept the Blazers alive and energized the crowd. However, whenever Benilde threatened to complete the rally, Mangubat delivered crucial plays, including a key field goal and pressure-packed free throws in the final seconds.

When the final buzzer sounded, JRU emerged victorious, 85-79, securing an important win that clinched the top seed in Group A and a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. Lawrence Mangubat earned Player of the Game honors after recording a career-high 27 points, while Sean Salvador and Jamhir Eligado added 16 points each for the Heavy Bombers. For Benilde, Mowell Morales led the scoring with 16 points, while Justine Sanchez contributed 13.

The victory improved JRU's record to 10-3 and strengthened its championship aspirations, while the Blazers absorbed a setback despite the return of two-time MVP Allen Liwag to the lineup. The contest showcased the resilience and competitiveness of both teams and highlighted JRU's ability to execute under pressure in a high-stakes environment.

Final Score:JRU Heavy Bombers 85 - 79 CSB Blazers 

Quarter Scores:

• 1st Quarter: CSB 23 - 20 JRU

• 2nd Quarter: JRU 45 - 39 CSB (Halftime)

• 3rd Quarter: JRU 69 - 59 CSB

• Final: JRU 85 - 79 CSB