Gozum powers Blazers to 4th straight

MANILA, Philippines — College of St. Benilde coach Charles Tiu knew they would need Will Gozum to recall his MVP form from a year ago for the Blazers to have a legitimate shot at the NCAA championship.

Responding, Gozum summoned a flicker of his old self and helped lift the Blazers past Arellano University, 74-56, yesterday and into their longest streak in Season 99 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Coming off the bench, the reigning MVP wreaked damage with 17 points, nine rebounds and two blocks as CSB nailed its fourth straight win and eighth overall in 12 games while sending AU reeling to 2-10.

Tiu wanted Gozum to do more.

“Will (Gozum) is playing better,” said Tiu. “But his decision making still needs to improve, and he is far from where I want him to be. “

University of Perpetual Help, buoyed by the entry of PBA star and alumnus Scottie Thompson as an assistant coach, downed Jose Rizal U, 72-61, to remain in the Final Four hunt with 5-7. The Bombers (8-5) fell to fifth.