RU cruises past Benedicto College Cheetahs in Cebu City Invitationals opener

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Reigning FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup champion Jose Rizal University (JRU) lived up to its billing as one of the favorites in the Cebu City Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament, cruising to a 78-65 victory over host Benedicto College (BC) in the opening game on Thursday, August 6, at the Cebu City Sports Institute Gym in Barangay Sawang Calero.

Leading the Heavy Bombers’ balanced attack was Cebuano standout Lawrence Mangubat, who thrilled the hometown crowd with a game-high 19 points, three rebounds, one assist, and one steal. Mangubat shot an efficient 6-of-15 from the field in just 24 minutes of action.

Christopher Hubilla added 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, and a steal, while Allan Laurenaria chipped in 12 points, five rebounds, and a block as JRU led from start to finish. The Heavy Bombers built a commanding 52-32 advantage early in the third quarter and never looked back.

Benedicto struggles

Benedicto College struggled to keep pace despite a valiant effort from Den Ric Orgong, who posted a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds to go with four assists, one steal, and one block. Serge Gabines and Junil Bulan added nine points apiece for the Cheetahs.

Interestingly, the statistics told a different story. Benedicto outscored JRU 44-38 in points in the paint, nearly matched the Heavy Bombers’ bench production, 30-28, and dominated second-chance scoring, 11-2. However, JRU’s superior shot-making and consistent execution proved to be the difference.

With the victory, JRU joined the University of Cebu Webmasters atop the early standings with identical 1-0 records. UC opened its campaign with an 89-85 comeback win over the University of the East Red Warriors.

Action resumes Friday with reigning Cesafi champion University of the Visayas taking on Benedicto College at 6 p.m., while JRU shoots for its second straight win against the UE Red Warriors at 8 p.m.

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