PERPETUAL Help became the first team to enter the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball semifinals on Thursday afternoon after the Altas’ 81-74 win over Jose Rizal University at Mall of Asia Arena.

The Altas, who finished as the top seed of Group A after ending the elimination round with a 9-4 record, made sure not to waste their twice-to-beat advantage after booting the Heavy Bombers out of the quarterfinals.

“Tinatry ko lang talaga to make the right read every time. Gusto kasi ni coach Olsen (Racela) for us to take the high percentage shots,” Patrick Sleat said.

Mark Gojo Cruz flourished anew with 23 points, two rebounds and two assists. Sleat helped the cause with a double-double of 14 points and 10 assists with six rebounds to match.

JRU, which had to endure a play-in for fourth two days ago against Emilio Aguinaldo College, had their Season 101 run cut but now without the efforts of Sean Salvador, who finished with 18 points. Allen Laurenaria’s double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds also went for naught.

The Heavy Bombers officially capped off their season with a 6-8 record.

The Altas, meanwhile, await the winner of the Arellano vs. Letran series, which goes on a rubber match tomorrow at San Juan Arena.

Before they even think about that, though, Sleat is already thinking of how the Altas can play better before Final Four action.

“Whatever we’re doing, it’s not enough. We have to add more to our games and put in the extra effort. We also have to grow, not just as individuals but as a team.”

The scores:

PERPETUAL HELP (81) – Gojo Cruz 23, Sleat 14, Orgo 10, Abis 9, Boral 7, Nuñez 6, Casinilio 4, Duremdes 2, Alcantara 2, Tulabut 2, Gelsano 2, Maglupay 0, Pagulayan 0

JRU (74)  – Salvador 18, Laurenaria 16, Lozano 11, Panapanaan 8, Duque 6, Argente 4, Garupil 4, Castillo 3, Benitez 2, Sarmiento 2, Herrera 0

Quarterscores: 22-16, 41-37, 63-51, 81-74