San Beda conquers Ateneo in Game 1 of PCCL semis

“San Beda Red Lions wins Game 1 of the best-of-three UAAP vs NCAA Champions’ Showdown against Ateneo Blue Eagles Men’s Basketball Team, 49-43.” (Photo: Philippine Collegiate Champions’ League/Facebook)

Donald Tankoua led his team with 18 points and nine rebounds, while Evan Nelle provided 12 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals. James Canlas performed as well with nine points, five boards, and two steals. On the other hand, the Katipunan-based squad was led by Ange Kouame, who had a double-double at 13 points, 21 rebounds, and four blocks.

BJ Andrade performed as well with 11 points and five rebounds. Unfortunately for the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 81 champions, they only had eight players to begin the game with as Matt and Mike Nieto, as well as Jolo Mendoza and Tyler Tio were not able to be there for the entirety of the game due to their academics.

As San Beda snatched the first win of their best-of-three finals, head coach Boyet Fernandez shared, “We want to get this win. In a best-of-three, importante ang Game One (is important). We’re happy na (that) at least, we got the win,” adding, “It’s an ugly game, but we’re happy to get the win any time.”

As for one of the biggest factors that won them the game, Coach Boyet reported in Filipino, “Ateneo was not complete, the other guys came in late so we kind of had an advantage.”

Game two of the PCCL semi-finals, where the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 94 champions and UAAP Season 81 champions will go head-to-head is on Thursday, January 24 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig. The winner will face the University of Visayas for the 2019 title.