BY ABBY TORALBA
AFTER 14 long and weary years, Letran is back in the Big Dance.
The Squires brought down the Mapua Red Robins 83-78 yesterday in their semifinals duel in the 98th NCAA juniors’ basketball tournament at the San Andres Sports Complex.
The twice-to-beat Letran crew leaned on Andrei Gemao, who led the way with 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists.
“Well, of course, I’m thankful and I’m grateful. This is my first coaching job as a head coach sa high school,” Squires coach Allen Ricardo said.
“I’ve been a long-time assistant, so you know I’m very thankful and grateful to coach Letran,” he added.
Jonathan Manalili fired 12 markers, six boards and six dimes, Jovel Baliling added 11 points while George Diamante sizzled a double-double outing of 10 and 14 for Letran.
Nygel Gonzales paced Mapua with 21 points, while Noel Agemenyi had 11 markers.
The Squires will try to end a two-decade title drought when they last won it all in the 2001-2002 season.
In the other game, La Salle Green Hills whipped No. 2 and defending champion San Beda 92-79 to keep its title dreams alive.
Seven Gagate banged in 24 points and hauled down 12 rebounds for the Greenies, while Manuel Pablo chipped in 23 markers and 11 caroms.
Rod Alian also had 14 points, eight rebounds and five dimes, while Gian Gomez finished with 11 as La Salle Green Hills forged a knockout match for a finals berth on Thursday at the same venue.
Christopher Hubilla carried the fight for the Red Cubs, who muffed their win-once incentive, with 34 points and 15 boards.
