San Beda rookie Bryan Sajonia against Lyceum in NCAA Season 100.–NCAA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—San Beda opened its campaign for back-to-back titles on a high note in the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball tournament.
The Red Lions handed Lyceum a methodical 79-63 beating, showing they’re still a force to reckon with even sans star guard Jacob Cortez.
Article continues after this advertisement
“I’m very confident with these guys coming in. I know what they can do and bring to the team and it’s just a matter of letting them play their games,” said San Beda coach Yuri Escueta.
READ: NCAA: Yuri Escueta confident San Beda holdovers can get job done
San Beda coach Yuri Escueta and Bryan Sajonia after their season-opening win over Lyceum. #NCAASeason100 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/3aUOKjUvn5
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) September 7, 2024
“I credit it to our preparations that we had during the preseason. There’s still lots of room for improvement because it’s the first game, everyone had jitters but hopefully everyone will eventually calm down and be composed.”
Article continues after this advertisement
The Red Lions imposed their will over the Pirates from the jump, zooming to a 29-11 lead.
Lyceum tried to rally but to no avail as San Beda flaunted its offensive prowess led by rookie and former Far Eastern University guard Bryan Sajonia.
READ: San Beda begins title defense vs Lyceum to open NCAA Season 100
“Bryan easily fits with our lineup because of his talents, skill level and tenacious defense,” lauded Escueta.
Sajonia led the way with 18 points, five rebounds and two assists while veteran Yukien Andrada tallied 13 points and six rebounds for the Red Lions.
McLaude Guadaña dropped a career-high of 22 points for Lyceum, which made the Final Four last season, while John Barba scored 13.
San Beda goes for a 2-0 start against College of St. Benilde on Tuesday.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.