The JRU Heavy Bombers delivered a statement performance in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, securing a hard-fought 74–67 victory over the San Beda Red Lions on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The match, played under the 5:00 PM lights, saw the Heavy Bombers lean on a disciplined second-half effort to upset one of the tournament’s traditional powerhouses and improve their early-season record in the annual summer showcase.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, both teams traded blows in a tightly contested first half. San Beda, known for its patented pressure defense and transition scoring, jumped out to an early lead behind crisp ball movement and second-chance points. However, JRU weathered the storm by controlling the tempo and capitalizing on Red Lion turnovers. The game was knotted at 35–35 heading into the break, setting the stage for a decisive third quarter.

Key Moments and Turning Points

• Third-Quarter Surge: JRU came out of halftime with renewed defensive intensity, holding San Beda to just 12 points in the third period. A 9–0 run midway through the quarter, fueled by steals and fast-break layups, gave the Bombers a lead they would never relinquish.
• Free-Throw Clutch Performance: Down the stretch, JRU converted 8 of 10 free throws in the final two minutes, effectively sealing the game. San Beda, meanwhile, struggled from the stripe, hitting only 60% of its attempts for the game.
• Red Lions’ Late Push: With under a minute remaining, San Beda cut the deficit to four points on a three-pointer, but JRU answered with a quick bucket and a defensive stop to close out the upset.

Standout Players

For the Heavy Bombers, guard Mark Anthony Reyes was the catalyst, finishing with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. His ability to break the press and create shots in the half-court was instrumental. Center Joshua Dela Cruz added a double-double with 12 points and 14 boards, dominating the glass on both ends.

San Beda was led by veteran forward John Benedict Flores, who poured in 20 points and 7 rebounds. However, he received little support from the supporting cast, as only two other Red Lions reached double figures. The team’s shooting from deep (4-of-18) proved costly in a game decided by single digits.

Tactical Story

JRU head coach Jerry Codiñera adjusted his defensive scheme at halftime, switching to a 2–3 zone that clogged San Beda’s driving lanes and forced contested jumpers. The Red Lions, accustomed to attacking the rim, struggled to adapt. Offensively, the Bombers slowed the pace and ran clock, limiting San Beda’s transition opportunities—a hallmark of the Red Lions’ offensive identity.

San Beda’s pressing defense, usually a weapon, was neutralized by JRU’s composed ball-handling and quick outlet passes. The Bombers committed only 11 turnovers, five fewer than their average in previous games.

Season and Tournament Impact

While the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup does not directly affect NCAA standings, it serves as a critical preparation tournament for the upcoming collegiate season. For JRU, this win provides valuable momentum and a confidence boost, especially after a rebuilding campaign last year. San Beda, meanwhile, will look to correct its shooting inconsistencies and defensive lapses as it continues its preseason slate.

The result also tightens the standings in Group A, with the Heavy Bombers now holding a 2–1 record, while the Red Lions drop to 1–2. Both teams are set to face tough opponents in the coming days, making every game a learning opportunity before the regular season begins.