Mapua Cardinals clinch NCAA finals spot

Mapua Cardinals clinched their spot in the NCAA finals on Tuesday with a decisive 78-67 win over College of St. Benilde Blazers at Mall of Asia Arena.

Paolo Hernandez led the team with 22 points, while Clint Escamis contributed 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals.

Coach Randy Alcantara highlighted his veteran players' performance and strong defense as key factors in securing Mapua's finals berth for a second consecutive season.

With this victory, Mapua aims to end their 32-year title drought.