San Beda College solidified their hold of the top spot, routing San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 75-56, in the first game of Friday’s National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 90 seniors basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Red Lions opened the game with a 27-7 surge and never looked back.

“The result shows the character of the team,” said San Beda head coach Boyet Fernandez.

Ola Adeogun played a yeoman’s game with 12 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks to held his 6-1 team. Anthony Semerad led in scoring with 19 points.A revelation for the Red Lions is ex-Red Cub standout Ranbill Tongcom who added 12 points, ten of which were scored in the fourth quarter when the Golden Stags trimmed a 23-point lead to 14 at 51-65.

“I saw him do his shots in practice and he made those shots in the end. If he continues to play that way, I’m sure he’ll be the next top point guard of San Beda,” Fernandez said.

The Stags, led by CJ Perez with 13 points, drop to 3-4 at solo seventh place.