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RJ JAZUL scored six straight inside the final 38
seconds to lift the Letran Knights past the Philippine Christian
University Dolphins, 60-54, Thursday in the 84th NCAA basketball
tournament at the Cuneta Astrodome.
Jazul’s terrific finish capped
Letran’s rally from 12 points down in the first half.
He finished with 20 points while
canning all of his 8 free throws.
“It was all struggle in the
first 37 minutes. Good thing nag-click ang defense namin,” said
Letran coach Louie Alas.
The Knights forced the Dolphins
to three turnovers in the closing minutes.
The 2004 champion Dolphins, who
are set to take an indefinite leave of absence starting next season,
ended their campaign with a 3-11 record.
“It was a very close match.
Fortunately for us RJ [Jazul] stepped up down the stretch,” said
Alas, whose Knights played without the suspended Dino Daa and
injured Alvyn Cabonce.
But there’s no time to
celebrate for Alas and the Knights as they face defending champions
San Beda College Red Lions on Wednesday.
A win over the Red Lions will
give the Knights an outright seat in the Final Four.
The Knights are currently sharing
second spot with the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers at 9-4.
--Frank Calapre
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