By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The University of Perpetual Help Altas kept their spotless record intact after defeating defending champion Mapua University Cardinals, 75-65, in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan City on Wednesday, October 8.

Bacolodnon Leobert Andrew Casinillo provided a season-high 13 points, with three outside conversions, as the Altas seized first place in Group A with a 3-0 record.

John Boral led the balanced attack with 15 points, including two three-pointers, while Patrick Sleat and Mark Gojo Cruz also contributed 12 markers each for Perpetual Help.

With the score tied at 65-all following a split free throw by ex-Altas and now Cardinals forward Marcus Nitura, Perpetual Help closed out strong with a 10-0 finishing run.

Negrense Shawn Orgo broke the deadlock with two free throws, before Boral added another pair of charities and a clutch triple.

Sleat then sealed the win with a layup and an extra free throw.

John Recto finished with 16 points to lead the Cardinals, Cyril Gonzales chipped in 15 markers, while reigning NCAA MVP Clint Escamis struggled with just six markers as they slipped to a 2-1 record.

Meanwhile, the College of St. Benilde Blazers pulled away in the fourth quarter to defeat the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights, 95-80.

Justine Sanchez spearheaded the Blazers’ balanced attack with 23 points, including four three-pointers, as they secured their second consecutive victory for a 2-1 record in Group B.

Matthew Oli came off the bench to deliver a season-high 20 markers, while Jhomel Ancheta and Shawn Umali added 16 and 13 points, respectively, for the Blazers.

Jonathan Manalili paced the winless Knights with 23 points.

Chad Gammad scored 18 and Deo Cuajao contributed double figures in a losing effort.

Letran fell to 0-3 in Group B./ASC, WDJ