NCAA: Chris Hubilla powers JRU over EAC to sustain form

Jose Rizal University’s Chris Hubilla in action against Emilio Aguinaldo College in NCAA Season 102. Angela Davocol/NCAA Philippines.MANILA — It was Chris Hubilla’s big night that powered Jose Rizal University past Emilio Aguinaldo College, 84-74, in NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball on Monday at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.

Hubilla came alive with 26 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, and two steals as the Heavy Bombers secured their sixth win in seven games to remain in the top two of Group A.

“Nahirapan kami nung first half. We had open shots pero di namin naco-convert,” said Jose Rizal U head coach Nani Epondulan, as they erased a six-point halftime deficit and built a lead of as many as 14 points later on. “Luckily, nag-open yung floor for Hubilla and [Lawrence] Mangubat.”

Mangubat scattered 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists for JRU, which also extended its winning streak to four games, while Sean Salvador chipped in 11.

Jude Bagay and Nunag led the Generals with 17 points apiece, while Wilmar Oftana tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds. However, EAC could not overcome Hubilla’s season-high scoring output.

The loss marked EAC’s second straight defeat and fifth in seven games.

JRU 84 – Hubilla 26, Mangubat 15, Salvador 11, Garupil 9, Eligado 7, Palis 5, Masiglat 4, Laurenaria 3, Garcia 2, Panapanaan 2, Penaverde 0, Herrera 0, Duque 0, Mejia 0.

EAC 74 – Bagay 17, Nunag 17, Oftana 14, Castillo 7, H. Raymundo 7, M. Raymundo 6, Shanoda 4, Ochavo 1, Bonus 1, Luna 0, Coronel 0, Lanceta 0, Baniqued 0, Sealey 0.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 35-41, 58-51, 84-74.