Ian Torres' Buzzer-Beater Sends Benilde Blazers to NCAA Semis Decider Against San Beda

In a thrilling NCAA Season 101 semifinal showdown, Ian Torres propelled the Benilde Blazers to a dramatic 77-75 victory over the San Beda Red Lions with a buzzer-beating floater on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena. The clutch shot came with the game tied at 75, as Torres swiftly moved downcourt and challenging defender Nygel Gonzales, released an off-balance shot that rattled around the rim before dropping through the net, sealing the triumph for Benilde.

The intense final quarter saw both teams exchanging leads. Bryan Sajonia spearheaded San Beda’s efforts, while Torres and Shawn Umali drove the Blazers’ offense. San Beda had a brief three-point cushion at 73-70 following a layup by Jomel Puno with 2:39 left, but Torres responded with a crucial three-pointer to level the score at 73-all with 1:38 on the clock.

Following Sajonia’s layup to regain the lead, Justine Sanchez nailed a basket to tie the contest at 75-all, paving the way for Torres’ game-winning shot.

Benilde’s Ynot led all scorers with 19 points, alongside seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Torres contributed 17 points, two rebounds, and two assists, while Sanchez recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. On the San Beda side, Gonzales led with 17 points, six rebounds, and two assists, and Sajonia added 16 points.

With the series now knotted at 1-1, both squads will face off in a decisive Game 3 on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to determine who advances to the NCAA finals.