Published October 2, 2025 2:44pm
Updated October 2, 2025 2:44pm
Steven Creus. (Photo: Vyn Radovan)
Lyceum of the Philippines University defeated Mapua University, 74-66, to open the NCAA Season 101 juniors basketball tournament on Thursday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Both squads went neck and neck until Mapua took a 63-61 lead with 3:44 left in the fourth quarter. The Junior Pirates responded with a 7-0 run to reclaim a 68-63 advantage.
Froilan Reyes hit a three-pointer to pull Mapua closer, but Ken Bo completed a three-point play, followed by a split from the line by Jericho Abrantes and clutch free throws from Lemarcus Pelayo to seal the win.
LPU Junior Pirates head coach Al Vergara said they are determined to prove themselves as worthy contenders, especially after winning just one game last season.
“Sabi lang namin sa mga bata, maging uhaw kayo kasi last season halos ma-zero tayo. Ibahin naman natin, ibahin natin ang tingin sa atin ng ibang teams,” Vergara said.
“Parang ipo-prove natin sa kanila na mali sila.”
Steven Creus led the Junior Pirates with 18 points, six rebounds, and one assist, while Khian Panerio added 12 points. Pelayo contributed 10 rebounds, four points, and five assists.
Kean Dungca led the Red Robins with 14 points, while Reyes added 13. Returning player Jhillian Palis chipped in 10 points.
Scores:
LPU 74 – Creus 18, Bo 15, Panerio 12, Yonzon 9, Turno 8, Pelayo 4, Abrantes 3, Nodalo 2, Mercado 2, Peña 1, Araneta 0.
Mapua 66 – Dungca 14 Reyes 13, Palis 10, Bernabe 8, Mercado 6, Bagro 6, Castro 4, Parame 4, Docto 1, Gemao 0, Uy 0, Victolero 0.
Quarters: 18-18, 34-34, 54-52, 74-66.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
