San Beda Red Lions held off a determined JRU Heavy Bombers side to win 75-71 in Philippines National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball on Friday, October 23, 2026. The Red Lions led for much of the second half but needed a composed final two minutes to secure the result after JRU cut the deficit to a single possession.

Match overview

The game was a contrast in styles. San Beda preferred a deliberate half-court approach, working the ball inside and using its size on the offensive glass. JRU played with more pace, pushing in transition whenever possible and looking for early three-point attempts. The first half was tightly contested, with neither team leading by more than six points. San Beda took a 36-34 lead into halftime, and the margin remained in single digits for the entire second half.

• Final score: San Beda Red Lions 75, JRU Heavy Bombers 71
• Decisive stretch: San Beda’s 7-2 run over the final 90 seconds
• Key stat: San Beda out-rebounded JRU 42-34, including 14 offensive boards

Key moments

JRU tied the game at 69 with just under two minutes left when its point guard hit a pull-up jumper in transition. San Beda responded with a patient possession that ended in a corner three from its veteran wing, restoring a three-point lead. After a JRU miss, the Red Lions grabbed a crucial offensive rebound and added two free throws. JRU had one final chance to tie, but a contested three-pointer fell short, and San Beda sealed the win at the line.

Tactical story

San Beda’s size advantage around the rim proved decisive. The Red Lions scored 34 points in the paint and repeatedly hurt JRU with second-chance opportunities. Defensively, San Beda switched between man-to-man and a compact zone, forcing JRU into several late-clock shots. The Heavy Bombers stayed in the game with their perimeter shooting and transition energy, but they struggled to contain San Beda’s interior passing in the fourth quarter. JRU’s pressure defense created 14 turnovers, yet San Beda’s half-court execution held up under pressure.

Standout performers

San Beda’s forward led the way with 20 points and 10 rebounds, dominating the offensive glass in the second half. The Red Lions’ guard added 16 points and five assists, including the go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute. JRU’s top scorer finished with 18 points, while its center contributed 14 points and nine rebounds. The Heavy Bombers’ bench provided a spark in the third quarter, but San Beda’s starters made the bigger plays down the stretch.

Season impact

The victory gives San Beda another important win in the NCAA Philippines standings and reinforces its reputation as a team capable of winning close games. JRU leaves with a frustrating result but plenty of positives, having pushed one of the league’s traditional powers to the final possession. The Heavy Bombers’ ability to compete in the half court will be tested again soon, while San Beda will focus on improving its free-throw shooting after leaving several points at the line. The head-to-head result could become relevant if both teams remain in the Final Four conversation.