Arellano University entered the NCAA Season 100 win column after defeating San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 87-73, on Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
The Chiefs relied on a strong start as it outscored the Golden Stags, 32-20, in the first quarter alone before the half ended in their favor, 51-43.
Arellano led by as much as 17, 77-60, at the 7:46 mark of the fourth period before cruising onto its first victory.
"'Yung mga bata, they committed to play hard and then gusto nila tapusin kasi pressured to win na, 'yun ang kailangan namin gawin kundi malulubog kami sa bottom," Chiefs head coach Chico Manabat said.
"Gusto namin talaga manalo, 'yun ang importante. Ito na ang pressure to win so we need to handle that."
T-Mc Ongotan registered a career-high 21 points, alongside five rebounds, five assists, and a steal, while Lorenz Capulong had 12 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks and a steal as Arellano improved to 1-4.
Nico Aguilar had 14 points, while Harold Ricio and Paeng Are had 11 points apiece as the Golden Stags were dealt their third straight loss and slipped to 2-3.
Arellano will go against Jose Rizal University on Wednesday, while the Golden Stags will face University of Perpetual Help System DALTA on Tuesday.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
