MANILA – Clint Escamis delivered a dramatic game-winning three-pointer with just four seconds left, lifting Mapua University to a thrilling 75-73 win over College of Saint Benilde in NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball action at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Sunday.
Escamis, the reigning MVP, finished with 26 points, five assists, four rebounds, and one steal. His clutch shot, his third triple of the game, capped off a comeback effort by the Cardinals, who improved to a 13-3 record alongside CSB.
“This was the biggest shot of my career so far,” Escamis said after the game. With two more elimination-round games remaining, Mapua needs one more win to secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four.
The Cardinals trailed 39-54 at halftime but mounted a strong second-half rally, led by Escamis, who scored 10 points in a 21-9 run that brought Mapua within three, 60-63, heading into the final quarter.
Lawrence Mangubat added 12 points, while Yam Concepcion contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and three steals for the Cardinals, who are now gearing up for their final two elimination games: Wednesday against San Sebastian College-Recoletos and Saturday versus Arellano University.
For CSB, Allen Liwag led with a near-double-double, posting 15 points, 13 rebounds, five blocks, and three assists. Ian Torres, Gab Cometa, and Matthew Oli each chipped in 10 points, while Winston Ynot had nine points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
This victory avenged a 78-65 loss to the Blazers on September 7 and keeps Mapua’s hopes for a strong Final Four finish alive.
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