San Juan City, Philippines – Mapua University cemented its lead in the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament after a victorious match against Emilio Aguinaldo College with a score of 83-77 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan City. Clint Escamis emerged as a key player for the Cardinals, contributing significantly to their lead with 17 points, which included a crucial triple and two free throws, elevating their standing to 11 wins and only three losses.
According to Philippines News Agency, the NCAA, the Cardinals have now overtaken Lyceum, which is currently positioned second with a 10-3 record, followed by College of St. Benilde at 9-4. Other contenders include San Beda University at 8-4, Jose Rizal University at 8-6, Emilio Aguinaldo College at 7-7, and the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta trailing with a 6-7 record. Escamis, a strong MVP contender, also achieved eight rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block. Mapua assistant coach JR Carlos expressed contentment with the results, emphasizing the team's focused ambition.
In another match, San Sebastian College-Recoletos overcame Letran with a decisive 94-75 scoreline. Standout performances by Rafael Are, who scored 23 points, and Rommel Calahat with 21 points, allowed the Stags to improve their season to a 5-9 record, leaving them in eighth place. Letran now languishes at the bottom, facing their 13th loss against a singular win.