By Dugout Philippines
Arellano lost a double-digit edge but used a late run to eliminate gritty JRU, 72-65, in their NCAA Final Four clash at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Chiefs led by as much as 12, 44-32, early in the third quarter.
But the Heavy Bombers slowly crawled back and cut the lead to one, 54-53, at the end of the period.
Arellano looked to rebuild the huge lead after scoring the first five points of the fourth quarter.
But Jaycee Asuncion scored ten consecutive points that gave JRU the lead, 63-62.
Prince Caperal, however, scored on a two-pointer that sparked the game-ending 10-2 run for the Chiefs that set up their date with the San Beda Red Lions for the championship beginning Monday.
Dioncee Holts led Arellano, a Finals first-timer, with 22 points.
Tey Tedoro, on the other hand, had 19 points for JRU.
Box Scores:
Arellano 72-Holts 22, Hernandez 12, Jalalon 8, Caperal 8, Pinto 7, Agovida 7, Ciriacruz 4, Salcedo 2, Enriquez 2, Gumaru 0, Bangga 0, Cadavis 0
JRU 65-Teodoro 19, Asuncion 13, Mabulac 13, Abdulwahab 6, Benavides 5, Sanchez 4, Paniamogan 3, Lasquety 2, Salaveria 0, Grospe 0
Quarterscores: 21-18, 36-31, 54-53, 72-65
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