In a time when upsets are the order of the day in the major leagues, Lyceum of the Philippines University-Manila pulled off the same feat against De La Salle University, 74-73, on May 22 in the 2009 Nike Summer League at the Far Eastern University Gym.

Joseph Abaya scored the game-winning basket with 17 seconds to go for the Pirates. De La Salle still had a chance to win it but James Mangahas’ attempt missed its mark.

This outcome complicates the playoff picture in seniors Group C. In the event that the Intramuros-based squad wins its final assignment and the green and white crew drop theirs, there would be a triple tie in second among the two teams and idle Mapua Institute of Technology.

Lyceum-Manila owns a 2-2 standing with its last game of the eliminations against Universidad de Manila on May 25 at 9am.

The Green Archers, on the other hand, would go up against FEU also on Monday at 10:30am. This is DLSU’s first defeat in the tournament this season.

To review the three teams’ head-to-head matchups, the Cardinals won against LPU-M, 61-51, on April 29 and the Archers were victorious against Mapua, 72-53, just two days ago.

Everything would be moot though if the Taft-based team takes care of the Tamaraws. Just the same, there would be a playoff for the first seed in their group on May 26.

Abaya topscored for the Pirates with 17 points and three assists. Jerard Ong and Rich Guevarra combined for 27 markers as Chris Aqualiful had a double-double with 11 and ten rebounds.

Peejay Barua led the losing squad with 23 points and five rebounds. James Mangahas hit 12 and Bader Malabes pumped 11 markers and four boards.

Meanwhile, San Beda College-Rizal won its fourth straight game by chipping on Malayan High School of Science, 89-50.

Arthur dela Cruz stood on the sholders of giants with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Dave Moralde wrote in 15 markers with Yvan Ludovice scoring 11.

Ace Basas led the flock with 12 points and 13 rebounds.

Finally, Hope Christian High School won via default against Jose Abad Santos Memorial School.