Manila: San Beda University kicked off its title defense with a 79-63 victory over host Lyceum of the Philippines University, 79-63, at the start of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 100 at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday.

Rookie Bryan Sajonia delivered a game-high 18 points on top of five rebounds to lead the Lions, who are eyeing a second straight crown.

‘We got him for what he can do and knowing Bryan, whatever he can do, he will do,” San Beda coach Yuri Escueta said.

‘We know that his biggest strength is defense. He was able to do his job in guarding their shooters,” he added.

Sajonia is expected to perform well after San Beda lost go-to guy Jacob Cortez to La Salle.

“We’re happy but it’s not over yet, me and coach Yuri still has a lot to fix,” the transferee from Far Eastern University said.

Skipper Yukien Andrada also played big with 13 points, including three triples.

The Pirates managed to move within 29-33, four minutes left in the second period, but that
proved to be their last stand as the Red Lions kept their momentum en route to victory.

San Beda beat Mapua in December last year to bag its 23rd title, three more than Letran’s collection.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara joined league alumni, headed by Pirate and national team player CJ Perez, during the opening ceremony.

Source: Philippines News agency