By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The De La Salle University (DLSU)-Ecooil took down the Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda, 82-71, in the battle of the PHL collegiate champions in the ongoing PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup on April 18, 2024, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
With the win, the Green Archers just continued their untainted record in the D-League, tallying their win-loss to a stellar 5-0, that helped them book an outright spot to the tournament semifinals.
It was also the rematch that collegiate fans witnessed as DLSU fought San Beda for the championship trophy in last year’s D-League edition.
For the second straight time, it was another DLSU classic high-octane show as the Green Archers asserted their mastery over San Beda for four straight quarters.
Joshua David, DLSU’s pesky two-way guard, led their assault after recording 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
It was David who sparked the early DLSU scoring avalanche after converting two layups and a long three-pointer.
Picking up where David left off was athletic swingman Jonnel Policarpio who amassed 13 points with most of it coming from offensive put-backs and layups.
Meanwhile, the heart and soul of the team, Mike Phillips, wrapped up the win with 11 markers, eight rebounds, two blocks, and two assists.
On the other hand, it was Ilonggo sniper John Bryan Sajonia who shone for San Beda after top-scoring his squad with 21 points.
“The first thing we told our players heading into this game was we have to respect San Beda. They’re not the NCAA champions for nothing and they’re coming off a tough loss against CEU, so we expected a physical battle,” said DLSU assistant mentor Gian Nazario after the win.
