Basketball
San Beda, San Sebastian renew rivalry; JRU takes on Letran
InterAKTV/Justin Gener
NCAA Season 88 action resumes at the FilOil Flying V Arena Monday when four teams in the upper half of the standings clash in key matches.
Jose Rizal University will try to bounce back from a demoralizing loss when it clashes with Letran at 4 p.m., before a battle of the titans takes place at 6 p.m. between San Beda and San Sebastian.
The Heavy Bombers were destroyed by the Red Lions, 62-37, in their last outing, with top gun Nate Matute held to just four points, all from the stripe, after averaging 21.3 points coming into the game. John Lopez, John Villarias and Alex Almario also had forgettable outings.
This year’s host Letran, meanwhile, is coming off a 70-60 win over Intramuros neighbor Lyceum. With a solid lineup led of Kevin Alas, Jam Cortes and Jonathan Belorio, the Knights are eyeing to win their fourth straight game.
In the other matchup, the Red Lions and the Stags will meet for the first time since their finals duel last season.
Armed with a healthy, complete and deep lineup, Rome Dela Rosa, Jake Pascual, Baser Amer and Kyle Pascual and Ola Adeogun will spearhead the attack for San Beda, which will face San Sebastian for the first time under coach Ronnie Magsanoc.
“Every game is a huge challenge, something we have to prepare for,” said Magsanoc. “Hopefully we’ll be able to execute.
“Experience-wise and talent-wise they have the edge, Let’s see how they will match up with a talented team. May rivalry tlga e, beterano si Coach Topex and Calvin [Abueva]. Hopefully we get to matchup with their athleticism and their height.”
The Stags on the other hand will have to do with an less-than-healthy Ian Sangalang, who sustained a minor left leg injury prior to their game against Emilio Aguinaldo Colege. Raring to bounce back from a 61-54 loss at the hands of the undermanned Mapua Cardinals, San Sebastian will have to rely of pro-bound duo of reigning Most Valuable Player Calvin Abueva and Ronald Pascual.
