In a stunning display of resilience and determination, Amiel Acido spearheaded the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA’s comeback victory against San Sebastian College-Recoletos, securing the top seed in the NCAA Season 99 juniors basketball tournament. The Junior Altas overcame a double-digit deficit to claim a commanding 111-80 triumph on Sunday, solidifying their position atop the standings with an impressive 8-1 record.
Acido delivered a standout performance, particularly shining in the pivotal third quarter, where he erupted for 15 points to fuel Perpetual Help’s remarkable comeback. The talented young athlete showcased his versatility with a stellar double-double performance, tallying 23 points, 20 rebounds, and five assists, guiding his team to victory in emphatic fashion.
Despite facing adversity in the early stages of the game, with San Sebastian seizing control and establishing a sizable lead, Perpetual Help remained composed and focused on mounting a comeback. Trailing by as many as 16 points in the first period, the Junior Altas steadily chipped away at the deficit, heading into halftime down by just five points at 48-43.
The turning point came in the third quarter, as Acido, supported by teammates Lebron Jhames Daep and Jan Pagulayan, orchestrated a sensational comeback. Perpetual Help unleashed an offensive onslaught, pouring in 45 points while stifling San Sebastian’s scoring opportunities, limiting them to just 21 points in the quarter. The defensive effort was highlighted by a stifling defense that kept San Sebastian scoreless for over four minutes, culminating in a layup by Jhun Penaverde.
Despite San Sebastian’s efforts to mount a comeback of their own, Perpetual Help never relinquished their lead, maintaining their momentum and extending their advantage to as much as 32 points before ultimately sealing the victory with a resounding 111-80 win.