RJ Tadeo produced a five-minute offensive brilliance and newcomer Manila Central University stunned last year’s runner-up Olivarez College, 74-61, in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League-PG Flex Linoleum Season 6 on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the Paco Arena in Manila.
With the Supremos protecting a slim 59-54 lead early in the payoff period, the shy 5-foot-8 guard suddenly exploded, stringing up 11 points spiked by three triples as the Caloocan-based squad finally ripped the game wide apart, 70-54, with 3.15 remaining.
The Sea Lions, who were swept by the Centro Escolar University Scorpions in their best-of-three title series, never recovered from Tadeo’s onslaught.
Tadeo finished with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists while three other starters also wound up in double figures with Bi Tizie Yannick Dje coming through with another double-double of 14 points and 15 boards.
University of Batangas improved its record to 4-3 after overpowering Lyceum of the Philippines University, 85-76, in the battle teams from Batangas.
The Pirates fell to 3-4, putting their bid to finish in the top 4 in peril.
Only Seanne Devon General from MCU’s starting unit failed to breach the double-figure mark with Andrei Romenez and Jan Hilao chipping in 15 and 10 points respectively.
The Supremos ended with a 3-5 card but they can improve their position if they play much better in the second phase where the fifth to 9th placers play another round.
The top four placers, on the other hand, will also play another round with best two teams earning bonuses in the knockout quarterfinal round.
The top four finishers after the initial round will only be determined at the close of the elims on Saturday, Feb. 17.
