The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Blazers struggled against the Colegio de San Juan de Letran (CSJL) Knights, receiving their third loss in NCAA Season 95, 88-64, earlier today, September 6, at the Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City.

Right from the get go, the DLS-CSB Blazers saw difficulty in executing offensive mechanisms as Letran Knights Edson Batiller and Fran Yu dominated the first quarter with two consecutive shots beyond the arc, 15-25.

In the second canto, Blazers Prince Carlos contributed five points and two turnovers alongside Robi Nayve’s three points and two turnovers. However, Letran’s powerhouse Jerrick Balanza fired up a back-to-back three-point shots, leaving the Blazers behind an inch closer, 35-46.  

Blazer stalwart cager Unique Naboa contributed four points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one turnover. Despite the Blazers’ combined efforts, Letran Knights showed no mercy as Tommy Olivario tallied seven points, four assists and a turnover minimizing Blazers’ chance to exceed Letran in the third frame, 49-73.

The final quarter saw a charging Kendrix Belgica contributing 12 points and seven rebounds. However, Letran Knight Balanza, with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists, took control of the game and led the Knights to their victory, 64-88.

The schedule of the second round of men’s basketball will be announced soon.

Box Scores:

DLS-CSB (64): Belgica 12, Haruna 8, Naboa 7, Flores 7, Carlos 7, Nayve 6, Sangco 5, Lepalam 5, Gutang 3, Young 3, Leutcheu 1, Dixon 0, Velasco 0, Mosqueda 0

CSJL (88): Balanza 26, Batiller 10, Olivario 7, Muyang 7, Caralipio 6, Yu 6, Ular 6, Balagasay 6, Ambohot 5, Reyson 5, Mina 2, Sangalang 2, Javillonar 0, Guarino 0

Quarter Scores: 15-25, 35-46, 49-73, 64-88