Welcome to the NCAA, Rhenz Abando!
Off the bench, Abando made a solid debut and introduced himself to the league, leading the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights in a come from behind win against the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Blazers, 67-63, on Saturday in the NCAA Season 97 opener at the La Salle Greenhills gym.
The Knights banked on a 6-0 run late in the game to notch their first win of the season, despite the Blazers' late attempt with less than ten seconds left. A split from Fran Yu sealed the deal for the Intramuros-based squad.
The Blazers had the lead at the end of the first half, 33-30, despite Letran's 9-1 run as the first 20 minutes of action come to a close.
Abando listed 19 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and four blocks in the win.
Season 95 Finals MVP Fran Yu chipped in with 12 points for Letran while Louie Sangalang and Pao Javillonar helped the Knights control the boards with 13 and 10 rebounds, respectively.
The Knights spoiled AJ Benson's 16-point output while Carlo Lim made 10 points in the losing effort.
Letran will see action again on Wednesday against Arellano University while Benilde will face the Lyceum of the Philippines University on Tuesday.
The scores:
Letran 67 — Abando 19, Yu 12, Caralipio 8, Sangalang 7, Javillonar 7, Paraiso 4, Fajarito 4, Mina 3, Olivario 2, Ambohot 1, Reyson 0, Guarino 0.
Saint Benilde 63 — Benzon 16, Lim 10, Gozum 8, Nayve 6, Cullar 6, Corteza 4, Davis 2, Lepalam 2, Marcos 2, Sangco 0, Flores 0, Mosqueda 0.
Quarters: 10-16, 30-33, 49-55, 67-63.
—JMB, GMA News
