Benilde fends off LPU rally for 107-103 victory
The Blazers improved to 8-3, sharing first place with San Beda University and Jose Rizal University in NCAA Season 102.
Matthew Jucom scored 23 points as De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde resisted a late challenge from Lyceum of the Philippines University to claim a 107-103 win at San Andres Gym on October 30, 2026.
The NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball result strengthened Benilde’s playoff bid and left three teams sharing the lead in the standings. The Pirates’ record slipped to 4-7.
With 3:48 remaining, LPU trailed 97-85. An 8-2 burst brought the Pirates within 99-93 with 1:26 left, before Jucom hit a three-pointer. Renz Villegas kept LPU in contention at the free-throw line, but Ian Torres also connected from beyond the arc for Benilde.
Villegas subsequently drew a foul from Celis and made two more free throws. Jhomel Ancheta then converted his foul shots after Mclaude Guadana fouled him, helping Benilde secure the result.
Benilde had established control early, finishing the opening period ahead 35-19. Its largest advantage came at 64-41 with 2:24 remaining before the interval. LPU faced deficits of 67-51 at halftime and 87-71 after three quarters.
Jucom’s contribution included five three-pointers, seven rebounds, two steals and two assists. Benilde also received 18 points each from SJ Moore and Mo Morales, plus 17 from Ancheta. Matthew Rubico led LPU’s scoring with 28 points, followed by Villegas with 26.
