LYCEUM of the Philippines University advanced to the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball quarterfinals after a hard-fought 70-63 victory against San Sebastian College-Recoletos at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan City on Tuesday.

John Ronald Barba led the Pirates with a standout performance, contributing 22 points, three assists, and three rebounds. His efforts helped Lyceum clinch the No. 4 seed in Group A and secure a matchup against Group B’s top seed, San Beda University, who holds a twice-to-beat advantage.

“Last night, I reminded myself to give everything I have, because I didn’t want this to be our last game,” said Barba, playing in his final collegiate season. “We want this season to be memorable, so winning today is huge for us.”

Jonathan Daileg added 14 points, including a pivotal three-pointer that capped a 6-0 run, extending Lyceum’s lead to 68-60 in the closing moments. JM Versoza also finished with 14 points, while Renz Adrian chipped in 10 points to support the Pirates’ win.

San Sebastian mounted a late surge, led by Jhuniel Dela Rama’s double-double of 17 points and 15 rebounds, narrowing the gap to 60-62 with just over two minutes left. Jose Lumanag and Jerover Dome Cabilla added 15 and 11 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough as the Golden Stags ended their season with a 3-11 record.

Lyceum now prepares to take on San Beda in the quarterfinals, aiming to extend their playoff run.

The scores:

LPU (70) – Barba 22, Daileg 14, Versoza 14, Villegas 10, Montaño 3, Peñafiel 3, Aviles 2, Moralejo 2, Abregana 0, Casiño 0, Fuentes 0, Matienzo 0, Pallingayan 0.

SSC-R (63) – Dela Rama 17, Lumanag 15, Cabilla 11, Gabat 6, Ricio 5, Castor 4, Felebrico 3, Cuajao 0, Nepacena 0.

Quarterscores: 20-21, 38-42, 50-47, 70-63.