Altas capture Fr. Martin title

University of Perpetual Help drew strength from its Nigerian player to down NCAA rival Arellano University, 79-70, and clinch the 11th Fr. Martin Collegiate Open Cup basketball tournament title held over the weekend at the Far Eastern University Gym in Morayta, Manila.

Akhuete Bright was almost unstoppable in the shaded lane, finishing with 18 points, including some clutch hits in the fourth quarter to power the Altas to their second championship in the league.

“He played so well,” said Lester del Rosario, who is Perpetual Help coach Aric del Rosario’s assistant.

Bright’s power plays sparked the team’s vicious 8-2 run that gave Perpetual a 75-70 lead.

Earl Scottie Thompson, the reigning NCAA MVP, and Kenneth Oliveria provided the needed firepower for the Altas who fired 17 and 15 points, respectively.

Jiovani Jalalon, who is in the Southeast Asian Games-bound national team pool along with Thompson, paced the Chiefs with 20 points while Fil-Am Dioncee Holts managed only nine points.

The Altas, who finished the elims with an 8-1 win-loss record, advanced to the final by pulling off a stunning 7366 win over reigning NCAA champion San Beda College.