THE EMILIO Aguinaldo College Generals showed great resolve as they bucked the absence of key players and their head coach to upset the San Sebastian Stags, 77-67, in the 88th NCAA men’s basketball tournament yesterday at the Arena in San Juan City.
The win was EAC’s first over the Stags since it joined the league back in 2009. It was helped by the fouling out of the league MVP Calvin Abueva with over six minutes left in the game.
“We really prepared for San Sebastian. Kay Abueva at sirain lang yung rhythm ni Pascual ang plano namin,” said EAC assistant coach Andy de Guzman, filling in for head coach Gerry Esplana, who served a one-game suspension.
Russell Yaya spearheaded the charge with 18 points while Happi Noube registered 17 points and 10 boards.
EAC set the tone for the upset early as they led, 26-11, after the first period.
The Stags mounted a comeback and were within one, 57-58, heading to the fourth but ran out of gas. San Sebastian was led by the 24 points and 17 rebounds of center Ian Sangalang. Abueva managed just nine points, eight boards, five assists, and six turnovers. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio