Rubico scores 21 as LPU beats Perpetual to end losing streak
The Pirates improved to 2-5 in Group A after defeating the ALTAs 98-89 in NCAA Season 102.
Four consecutive defeats gave way to a victory for Lyceum of the Philippines University on October 13, 2026, as the Pirates overcame University of Perpetual Help System DALTA 98-89. The NCAA Season 102 contest took place at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
Matthew Rubico equalled his season-high scoring performance with 21 points, making 5-of-6 three-point attempts. His other contributions included seven rebounds and four assists. LPU also received 19 points from Renz Villegas, 18 from Jonathan Daileg, 14 from Mclaude Guadaña and 11 from Roger Ondoa.
The Pirates reached half-time ahead 50-46. Rey Maglupay completed three three-point plays during the third quarter, cutting Perpetual's deficit to 60-59. After returning from an injury scare near the end of the second period, Mark Gojo Cruz helped the ALTAs draw level at 75-all, assisting three-pointers by Kenji Duremdes and Jim Corpuz.
Scoring from Ondoa and Guadaña pushed LPU ahead 84-75, before Perpetual replied with a 5-0 burst. Rubico and Daileg then hit triples during an 11-3 LPU surge that extended the advantage to 95-83. Three-pointers by Gojo Cruz and LA Casinillo made it 95-89 with 11.1 seconds left, but Daileg and Axel Manuel converted free throws to close out the victory.
