Clint Escamis exploded for 30 points as Mapua University defeated College of Saint Benilde, 84-73, Sunday in Game 1 of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 100 men’s basketball best-of-three finals at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Escamis also had five steals and four assists as the Cardinals moved on the verge of a sixth crown overall that will end their 33-year drought.
Game 2 is on December 7 at 2:30 p.m. after the 1:00 p.m. announcement of the individual awards.
“I learned a lot from last year. You don’t win a championship in Game 1 so the job is not yet finished,” Escamis said, referring to their finals’ loss to San Beda University last season when they also won the opener.
Escamis, Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in Season 99, produced a career-high 33 points in their 89-79 semifinal win over Lyceum on November 23.
John Recto chipped in 15 points while Chris Hubilla added nine points, nine rebounds, two assists, and two steals for the Cardinals, who posted their biggest lead at 62-48 early in the fourth quarter.
Lawrence Mangubat had eight points, four rebounds, four assists, and three steals, while John Jaboneta also had eight points to go with six rebounds, two assists, and a block.
Allen Liwag led the Blazers with 18 points, 14 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals.
Gab Cometa contributed 13 points and three rebounds while Jhomel Ancheta had 10 points, six rebounds, five assists, and one steal. (PNA)