Sharpened Steel: Letran Downs Perpetual in NCAA 102 Seniors Basketball Opener

The Letran Knights opened their NCAA Season 102 campaign on a high note, defeating the Perpetual Help Altas, 84-77, behind the explosive debut of transferee Denzil Sison-Walker and strong performances from Jimboy Estrada and Kevin Santos.

Sison-Walker led Letran with 21 points, while Estrada added 18 points, six assists, and three rebounds to anchor the Knights’ backcourt.

Santos dominated the interior with a 15-point, 12-rebound double-double, while rookie Justin Cargo provided a spark off the bench with eight points, three assists, three steals, and two blocks. Cargo also logged the most minutes among Letran players, reflecting the trust placed in him by head coach Allen Ricardo.

Letran faced a late scare after Sison-Walker fouled out with five minutes remaining and the Knights holding a 79-74 lead. With Jonathan Manalili also dealing with early foul trouble, Estrada, Manalili, and Santos took charge in the closing stretch.

Estrada and Manalili came through with a late-clock play in the final minute, breaking through Shawn Orgo’s perimeter defense before Estrada knocked down the dagger two-pointer to seal the victory.

Despite the win, Ricardo stressed that the Knights still have areas to improve.

"Bread and butter talaga namin ang defense. Medyo maliit ang lineup namin this season, kaya micro-pressure at relentless defense talaga ang kailangan naming i-apply," said Head Coach Allen Ricardo, while pointing to early foul trouble, free-throw shooting, and rebounding as areas the team needs to address.

Estrada, meanwhile, credited the team’s offseason experience for their composure in the crucial moments.

"Malaking tulong 'yung mga out-of-town leagues at off-season competitions na sinalihan namin. Doon talaga namin nabuo 'yung kumpyansa at tiwala sa isa't isa," Estrada added.

With their first hurdle cleared, the Season 101 runners-up have made an early statement in Season 102, showcasing both new firepower and veteran poise in their opening-day victory.

The scores:

LETRAN 84 - Walker 21, Estrada 18, Santos 15, Manalili 12, Cargo 8, Buensalida 5, Gammad 3, Diamante 2, Montecillo 0, Reyes 0 , Hugo 0

UPHSD 77 - Pagulayan 18, Gelsano 11, Casinillo 11, Gojo Cruz 8, Tulabut 8, Orgo 7, Borja 6, Cauguiran 3, Cristino 3, Maglupay 2, Duremdes 0, Roluna 0, Corpuz 0

Photo Credits: NCAA Philippines Media