Emilio Aguinaldo College and San Sebastian College-Recoletos pulled off separate upset wins to kick off their respective campaigns on Saturday in the NCAA Season 99 juniors basketball tournament.
The Brigadiers, who were winless in Season 98, eked out a narrow 78-75 against last season's finalists La Salle Green Hills behind the heroics of Janray Castillo, who poured in a whopping 30-point outing. The young cager also put together five rebounds and one assist to improve to 1-0.
Franzis Lumbo and Kelly Coronel chipped in 13 and 10 markers apiece.
The new-look Greenies banked on Guillian Quines, who paced LSGH with an all-round performance of 17 points on top of three boards, five assists, and four steals as the squad looked to start a new life without their former stars in Luis Pablo, Seven Gagate, and Santi Romero.
Meanwhile, San Sebastian escaped Final Four contender San Beda University, 83-79, with Jhun Peñaverde leading the charge for the Staglets.
Peñaverde dropped 17 points together with eight rebounds, two steals, and one block while Kit Bonus and Bienne Marasigan chipped in 15 and 11 markers each.
The Red Cubs, who made it to the semifinals stage last season, relied on Hendric Vailoces who had 22 points.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
