The undefeated Letran Knights, 3-0, was headed by the UST transferee Abando as he delivered his NCAA-career best of 24 points to go along with five rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

“Focus lang kami sa game… Laging sinasabi ni coach na ituring natin na championship game every game kasi hindi talaga kami makakabawi pag natalo kam,” Abando said.

Abando’s performance was a deciding factor in their continuous feat as he fired 10 points in the third quarter, giving Letran a 26-13 lead; and continued to dominate as their team easily slide into a 54-36 advantage, ending the game with an 11 point gap, 68-57.

Mark Sangalang and Allen Mina scored 10 points apiece, while Christian Fajarito and Jeo Ambohot combined for 11 points and 22 boards for Letran.

Meanwhile, the Altas was led by Jef Egan’s 15 points, and Kim Aurin’s 12 points and six rebounds.

The Letran Knights will next face Mapua on Friday before facing long-time rival San Beda on April 12.

The Scores:

Letran 68 – Abando 24, Sangalang 10, Mina 10, Caralipio 6, Fajarito 5, Ambohot 4, Paraiso 4, Yu 2, Olivario 2, Reyson 1, Guarino 0, Tolentino 0, Javillonar 0.

Perpetual 57 – Egan 15, Aurin 12, Omega 8, Nunez 6, Barcuma 5, Abis 4, Ferreras 4, Sevilla 2, Boral 1, Razon 0, Martel 0, Cuevas 0, Pagaran 0.

Quarterscores: 13-10, 28-23, 54-36, 68-57