DEFENDING champion San Beda University battles Mapua University today in a first-round rematch of their finals clash last season in the 100th NCAA basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
The game is set at 2:30 p.m. after College of St. Benilde battles Jose Rizal University in the curtain-raiser at 11 a.m.
San Sebastian College meets Emilio Aguinaldo College in the final tiff of a triple-bill at 5 o’clock.
“Getting a string of wins is helpful for us, especially ending the first round,” Red Lions coach Yuri Escueta said. “Being in the top four at the end of the first round, whatever position that is, is always good for us.
“Hopefully, sabi ko nga, let’s just keep getting better and finish the first round strong and as the season progresses, hopefully everybody starts buying into our offense and defense,” he added.
With a 5-3 mark for fourth, San Beda is expected to bank on Jomel Puno, Yukien Andrada, Bryan Sajonia and last year’s finals MVP James Payosing.
Reigning MVP Clint Escamis is aching to avenge the Cardinals’ heartbreak in the last Big Dance.
“Una, rest muna tapos pagbalik ng ensayo siyempre may gigil pa rin, may hunger pa rin kasi hindi pa rin nawawala iyong sakit na ibinigay nila sa amin last year,” Escamis said.
Escamis will link up with rookie Chris Hubilla, Lawrence Mangubat and Marc Cuenco in Mapua’s bid to improve its 6-2 card.
“Kailangan lang naming mag trabaho pa,” Cards strategist Randy Alcantara said.
