San Juan - Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) emerged victorious in a crucial NCAA Season 99 men's basketball game, defeating Arellano University 77-64 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Saturday.
According to Philippines News Agency, King Gurtiza, a Business Management major from Cavite, led the charge for EAC, scoring 23 points along with six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block. This victory improved EAC's win-loss record to 8-7, positioning them in fourth place in the tournament standings.
Supporting Gurtiza's stellar performance, Erlan Umpad contributed 12 points, six rebounds, and four blocks, while JP Maguliano and Joshua Tolentino added nine and eight points, respectively. EAC now faces a critical phase in its semifinal campaign, needing victories in its upcoming games against Jose Rizal University, Perpetual Help, and College of Saint Benilde to secure a spot in the Final Four. Arellano University, led by Jeadan Ongotan with 11 points, has now suffered its 12th loss against only two wins, placing them in seventh position. The current standings show Mapua and Lyceum tied for the lead at 11-3, followed by Saint Benilde and San Beda University. Perpetual Help and San Sebastian College-Recoletos are also in contention, highlighting the intense competition in the league.