MANILA - The San Beda Red Lions extended their title reign to four after prevailing over the Letran Knights,60-56 in their Game 3 showdown at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Saturday.

Mentored by former PBA player and champion coach Negrense Boyet Fernandez, the Red Lions emerged from a six-point deficit earlier in the game to cement their 18th title record in NCAA history.

During the post-game interview with the Manila-based media, Fernandez gave credit to all his players who showed their maturity and fought like champions up to the final buzzer.

He also credited the Letran Knights for giving the Red Lions a very good fight.

Art de la Cruz spearheaded the Red Lions after finishing wih 20 points, sixteen rebounds and three assists. He was also selected as the Finals MVP.

Both teams fought toe to toe in the 4th quarter until Letran commited a crucial turnover that opened the door for the Red Lions.

The Knights held a one point lead,50-49 but it was quickly answered by Rome de la Rosa to steal the upper-hand,51-50.

Almazan gave Letran the lead after scoring an undergoal stab but Ola Adeogun and Art Dela Cruz combined for San Beda's next five points to take a 55-52 commanding lead.

Kevin Racal made it a one point contest but Art Dela Cruz played the role of extinguisher after burying a cold-bloodied jumper with 1:03 minutes left in the game.

Letran gave their last push in the final seconds after Ford Ruaya converted with a jumper to put themselves within one,57-56 with 51.2 ticks left.

Ivan Ludovice made it a two-point contest after splitting his charities.

On the next play, Kevin Racal committed a costly turnover after throwing a weak pass that was intercepted by Art de la Cruz.

The Knights had no choice but to intentionally foul Ola Adeogun to stop the clock. Adeogun buried his two charities to seal the victory as the San Beda community rejoices.

Finals MVP Art de la Cruz credited his coach for trusting them despite their turnovers.*with reports from PNA

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