San Beda fends off EAC

By Adrian Stewart Co

San Beda University survived a slow start to secure an 89-72 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) last Thursday in the 95th NCAA men’s basketball season at the EAC gym in Manila.
James Canlas Kwekuteye top-scored for San Beda with 21 points, while Evan Nelle added 15, Calvin Oftana contributed 14, Donald Tankoua earned a double-double on 13 points and 10 rebounds, and Ilonggo small forward Clint Doliguez drilled two triples to finish with 10 points.
EAC surged to a 12-2 start with Jethro Mendoza scoring eight early points but San Beda was quick to overcome the deficit behind Kwekuteye, Tankoua, Doliguez, and Evan Nelle to take a 24-16 advantage.
Kwekuteye combined with Franz Abuda in the second period as San Beda continued to pound EAC, building a 45-21 halftime edge before tallying its biggest lead of 28 points in the third period.
EAC made a strong final push in the fourth quarter but only got as close as 82-65 with just over two minutes left.
Baskets from Tankoua sealed the win./ASC, WDJ