Gozum lifts Blazers past Heavy Bombers

Will Gozum fired 27 points to power College of St. Benilde past Jose Rizal University, 84-81, in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Gozum, the Season 98 Most Valuable Player, displayed his offensive prowess that was reminiscent of his old, deadly form, and topped it all with a crucial block on Marwin Dionisio’s three-point attempt from the left wing with four seconds left to help the Blazers win their ninth game in 13 games for the solo third spot in the standings.

“I’m happy we’re able to get away with the win today,” Tiu said after their hard-earned win over JRU.

“We expect the physicality and they are also desperate to win, they’re a very tough team,” he added.

The Heavy Bombers actually found their rhythm after triggering a 10-0 run that tied the game at 62-all in the third frame, but the rally was swiftly countered by the Blazers who went off a 11-0 blitz to seize a 73-62 cushion.

Eager to avenge their first-round loss, Joshua Guiab took over in the waning minutes of the payoff period, pouring 11 of his 23 points to keep JRU within striking distance, 83-81.

After Robi Nayve split his free throws on the other end to make it 84-81, Dionisio tried to force an extension but to no avail with Gozum pulling off the game-saving block.

As expected, physicality marred the game which saw the ejection of JRU head coach Louie Gonzales and Benilde’s Mark Sangco.

Guiab added 14 rebounds and three assists to his total, and was supported by JL Delos Santos and Agem Miranda who had 14 and 12 points, respectively, as JRU slid to 8-6.