Diliman College checked an impending collapse with a tremendous composure down the stretch to stun Technological Institute of the Philippines, 73-70, in the Universities and Colleges Basketball League (UCBL) at the Olivarez Sports Center.
Protecting a precarious 71-69 lead, pint-sized guard Kris Torrado came to Diliman College’s rescue, hitting a crucial lay-up to give the Blue Dragons a four-point cushion with 1:32 remaining.
Owned by Sen. Nikki Coseteng, Diliman College then held on to its ground to escape with its biggest win in the tournament.
The victory improved Diliman’s record to 2-2 while TIP suffered its second defeat in five contests.
“Napakasaya, kahit paano. For the past two games natalo kami, then ito pinaka-malaking isda ito. They (the Engineers) are one of the favorites in the tournament, wala akong masabi sa heart ng mga players ko. They gave their best, from the first up to the last quarter” said Blue Dragons coach Rensy Bajar.
Romyl Jornacion came through with 17 points, four rebounds, three steals and two assists, Torrado added 12 points and seven assists, while Jericho Mondala also scored 12 points for Diliman.
Bajar said he’s hoping their win over TIP will be the start of something good for the team.
“Siguro, yung maturity at the same time yung panalo, darating din yan. Itong year na ito is a learning experience for them,” said Bajar.
MJ Enriquez finished with 16 points while Jorey Napoles had a double-double effort of 14 points and 10 rebounds for TIP.
Scores:
DILIMAN 73 – Jornacion 17, Torrado 12, Mondala 12, Brutas 11, Sombero 7, Cecilio 4, Co 4, Bauzon 3, Hamdag 3, Tay 2, Salazar 1, Alfaro 0, Angeles 0.
TIP 70 – Enriquez 16, Napoles 14, Rosopa 11, Santos 8, Alcober 8, Diego 7, Jimenez 5, Santo 4, Akpuru 0, Okoronkwo 0.
Quarters: 17-13, 30-29, 56-52, 73-70