Bismarck Lina finally showed what he is truly capable of as he powered San Beda to a 79-65 victory over Arellano University Saturday that kept them at second in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
Playing only his third game since recovering from an ACL injury that sidelined him for 9 months, Lina delivered his best game to date in Lions uniform and pounded his way to 20 points he spiked with seven rebounds in just 21 minutes off the bench.
“For somebody who we can rely on in the post, malaking bagay especially to our shooters,” said San Beda coach Yuri Escueta of his prized rookie big.
Lina’s inside brilliance enabled the reigning titlists to claim their fourth win in a row and seventh overall in 10 outings.
Interestingly, the streak came right after San Beda fell to Arellano, 72-70, in the first round last Sept. 28.
But on this one though, the Lions made sure there won’t be a repeat.
Escueta, however, said there was neither hatred nor animosity with AU.
It was just a matter of showing their rival the respect they deserved.
“We did a better job today (yesterday). One addition was we have to respect our opponent. Tingin ko kasi we’re taking them lightly and we kailangan respetuhin natin sila, depensahan ng tama,” he said.
While Lina wrecked havoc inside, skipper Yuki Andrada did his damage outside that saw him bury four triples and finished with 15 points.
Jomel Puno scattered 14 points while plucking a team-high 10 caroms.
AU stumbled to 3-7.
The scores:
San Beda 79 – Lina 20, Andrada 15, Puno 14, Sajonia 8, Payosing 7, Gonzales 4, RC Calimag 3, Songcuya 3, P. Estacio 2, Richi Calimag 2, Tagle 1, Celzo 0, Bonzalida 0, Royo 0, Sollano 0.
AU 65 – Capulong 16, Ongotan 10, Valencia 9, Vinoya 6, Geronimo 5, Borromeo 4, Flores 4, Camay 2, Abiera 2, Libang 2, De Leon 2, Acop 2, X. Estacio 1, Hernal 0, Miller 0.
Quarters: 23-16; 41-29; 65-41; 79-65.
