JRU Light Bombers blast Mapua anew

JOSE Rizal High School banked on a balanced offense, as it pulled off an 80- 70 stunner over last year’s runner- up Mapua University in Season 94 National Collegiate Athletic Association juniors basketball tournament on Thursday at the Jose Rizal University ( JRU) Gym.

Four Light Bombers scored in doubles as they fired off their campaign with a bang.

“We won against them last year in the first round. The boys showed they want to beat them again, they played with heart,” said JRU juniors head coach Vic Lazaro.

Marwin Dionisio spearheaded the hosts with a huge double- double of 19 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes of play off the bench.

Cadell Buno, John Amores and Thomas Vasquez chipped in 14, 13 and 12 points, respectively, in the win that saw JRU lead by as much as 14 points.

The Light Bombers bested their foes in rebound ( 49- 36) and assist ( 16- 10) while also posting a higher shooting percentage ( 42- 36).

With the win, the Mandaluyong- based team joined University of Perpetual Help System DALTA and San Sebastian College at the top. The Junior Altas foiled San Beda High School, 72- 69, even as the Staglets escaped Lyceum of the Philippines University, 69- 68.

Roseler Sarias led the Red Robins with 16 points while Karl Mariano had 13 markers in the loss.

Mapua juniors’ top gunner Clint Escamis, who was the only starter left from last year, was limited to nine points all in first half due to early foul trouble.