John Bryan Sajonia of San Beda University dribbles the ball during the game against Jose Rizal University in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 101 men’s basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena on Saturday (Nov. 15, 2025). He scored 18 points as the Red Lions won, 65-56. (NCAA photo)
San Beda University powered through a tense finish to secure a hard-earned 65-56 victory over Jose Rizal University, claiming the top spot in Group B of the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday at the San Juan Arena.
The Red Lions leaned on the steady hands of John Bryan Sajonia, who poured in 18 points to steer the team to an improved 8-3 record. But it was Agjanti Miller who delivered the knockout blows, drilling two cold-blooded triples in the final two minutes to break JRU’s momentum and seal the win.
Miller, who finished with 16 points and eight rebounds, revealed that he entered the game far from 100 percent.
“I took a little step back in this game because I’ve been sick all week, so this is like a first game back for me,” he said. “At the last second, the ball came to me and I just had to put the game away—that’s the only thing on my mind.”
JRU fought hard behind the efforts of Allen Laurenaria and Shawn Argente, who dropped 12 points apiece, while Harry Angelo Herrera added 10. But the Heavy Bombers faded late, slipping to fifth place with a 6-6 record, just behind Letran’s 6-5 standing.
San Beda’s victory tightened the race for postseason positioning as the Red Lions continue their climb, showing once again why they remain one of the NCAA’s most dangerous squads when the game is on the line.
