By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrense Raffy Celis delivered a steady, impactful performance to complement a dominant outing from Shawn Umali as the College of Saint Benilde (CSB) defeated Jose Rizal University (JRU), 76-66, to stay in contention for a twice-to-beat advantage in the NCAA Season 101 seniors basketball playoffs at the Playtime FilOil Center in San Juan City on Tuesday, November 18.

While Umali powered the Blazers with a season-best 28 points on 11-of-16 shooting along with 12 rebounds and three blocks, Celis provided crucial support on both ends for CSB.

The Negrense forward finished with seven points at an efficient 2-of-4 clip, two assists and a rebound.

His timely plays helped stabilize Benilde during key stretches as they improved to 8-4.

“I think we prepared more defensively. We were surprised that they didn’t go zone, so we took advantage and went to Shawn. He came to play today. He showed bully ball and showed why he is PBA material in the future,” Benilde head coach Charles Tiu said.

“This game means a little bit more for us than them because we want that twice-to-beat advantage,” he added.

Tony Ynot added 13 points, eight assists and six rebounds, while Ancheta contributed 11 points and six boards.

JRU dropped to 6-7 and fell to fourth place in the group, setting up a play-in matchup against Emilio Aguinaldo College.

Shawn Argente led the Heavy Bombers with 14 points./ASC, WDJ