Mondala lifts Diliman over Lyceum-Batangas

Jerico Mondala came up big on both ends as Diliman College turned back Lyceum-Batangas, 88-81, to extend its win run to three in the Universities and Colleges Basketball League (UCBL) Season 2 at the Olivarez College gym in Sucat, Parañaque yesterday.

Adama Diakhite turned in another double-double of 25 points and 20 rebounds with five blocks to boot – all game-highs – but it was Mondala who stole the show as the Blue Dragons racked up their fifth win in six matches.

“He’s really a hard worker. He’s been putting in the extra effort in practice,” said Diliman College coach Rensy Bajar of Mondala, who tallied 21 points on 7-of-10 shooting on top of 15 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.

Jay Axalan had a team-high 19 points, spiked by five treys, while four others added at least 10 points each but the Pirates still missed the usual numbers from top gunner Bryan Buen, leading to their second straight loss and fifth overall in six starts.

Buen, who has normed 20 points in five games, groped for form and finished with just six points on seven limited attempts.

In the other game, Colegio de San Lorenzo bucked the absence of its top frontcourt duo as it repulsed Bulacan State University, 96-85.

Gelo Sablan made 21 points, seven assists and six rebounds while John Rojas finished with of 13 points and 15 rebounds as the Griffins wrapped up their first round campaign with a 6-1 mark despite the absence of Soulemane Chabi Yo (sprained left foot) and Jon Gabriel (fever).