By Kristel Satumbaga
Games Today
(Mall of Asia Arena)
2 p.m. – LSGH vs Mapua (Jrs)
4 p.m. – San Beda
vs Lyceum (Srs)
Take your pick: Lions on the loose or Pirates out to pillage?
San Beda and Lyceum start another chapter in their championship rivalry when the NCAA men’s basketball title series fires off today at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Game is at 4 p.m. in a rematch of last year’s finals with the two teams aching to draw first blood in the best-of-three finals affair.
The Red Lions seek to extend their reign for the third straight time and add another trophy to their rich collection while the Pirates are hungry to end their title draught since joining the league in 2011.
Last year, Lyceum had a chance to quench its thirst, only to get swept by more experienced San Beda in the best-of-three affair.
Lyceum coach Topex Robinson reiterated revenge is not in their agenda when facing San Beda again as they are more focused on improving their performance from last year.
“Our end goal is to become better versions of ourselves, not revenge; not payback,” said Robinson, whose team toppled Letran in their semifinal affair.
San Beda mentor Boyet Fernandez, whose team bested University of Perpetual Help in the other semis pairing, says they just want to extend SBU’s dynasty by bringing home a 22nd men’s title.
The matchup is even on paper with Lyceum winning in their first meeting, 73-66, and San Beda prevailing in the second round, 75-68.
Robert Bolick, Donald Tankoua and Javee Mocon banner the Red Lions while the Pirates bank on reigning Most Valuable Player CJ Perez, Mike Nzeusseu and Jaycee Marcelino.
