Valdez tows Pirates to Final 4

MANILA, Philippines — Enoch Valdez took charge in the final half as Lyceum of the Philippines University overcame San Sebastian College’s gutsy stand and escaped with an 83-80 victory yesterday to advance to the NCAA Season 99 Final Four at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Held to just four points in the first two quarters, Valdez went on juggernaut the rest of the way when he did practically everything that helped seal the Pirates their 12th victory against four defeats and Last-4 spot.

There, they join the Mapua Cardinals (14-3), who are also already assured of a top two finish and one of the two important twice-to-beat incentives.

The other one could land in the Pirates’ grasp, assuming they win at least one of their last two fights with the already-ousted Arellano U Chiefs tomorrow and the San Beda Lions Tuesday.

And LPU had Valdez to thank for.

In all, Valdez capped his brilliance with a stat line to remember – 18 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, two steals and three blocks.

Sweet-shooting Patrick Montano also came into the game on attack mode and trigger happy as he fired and sank four triples on his way to a magical 22-point performance.

The Stags did put up a serious fight, though, despite coming into the game already out of the Final Four hunt.

In fact, SSC-R appeared to have everything under control when it raced to a 42-34 halftime advantage.

When LPU caught up and even retook the lead, SSC-R just stuck closely and averted a blowout that everybody was expecting.

In the other game, Mapua toiled past a pesky Arellano U, 84-75, to stay at the helm.

The Chiefs dropped to 2-14.