By MARK REY MONTEJO
Louie Rosales stole the show and led University of Perpetual Help to a 96-87 triumph over San Beda to earn the first Finals spot in the NCAA Season 100 Juniors Basketball Tournament on Monday, April 7, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
In advancing to the finals for the second straight season, the Junior Altas remained composed and steadfast to keep the Red Lions at the bay, earning another stab at glory after a failed bid the last time.
Though the effort of Rosales, the Junior Altas, who came into the game armed with a twice-to-beat advantage for finishing No. 1 at the elims, posted their biggest lead at 18, 80-62.
In the finals, they will face the winner in the other semis war between No. 2 and reigning titlist Letran and La Salle Greenhills.
Rosales spearheaded Perpetual’s assault with 19 points on top of six rebounds, two assists, and one steal while Jan Roluna (15), JD Pagulayan (13), and TJ Tabbuan (10) provided ample support.
Their teammate and reigning MVP Lebron Jhames Daep had a stellar starling of nine points, 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block.
The Finals Game 1 is set Friday April 11 – which interestingly is Perpetual’s 50th found anniversary this year – at the same venue.
