Fresh from completing a 9-game sweep of the first round, defending three-time champion San Beda University tries to reaffirm its mastery over Emilio Aguinaldo College at the start of the second round of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan.
When they clash at 12 noon, the Red Lions hope to keep the mind-set that enabled them to score an easy 89-72 win in the first round as they intend to extend their winning streak since beating the Lyceum Pirates in the finals last season.
The Pirates, on the other hand, clash with the Arellano University Chiefs at 2 p.m. while the Letran Knicks tackle the Jose Rizal University Bombers at 4 p.m.
Lyceum and Letran are tie for second to fourth places with College of St. Benilde at 6-3.
Despite the departure of two key players from its title campaigns the previous three years, San Beda dominated the first round, an achievement that surprised even coach Boyet Fernandez.
“We’re not expected to be here. Credit it to the players for working hard every game,” said Fernandez, the architect of the team’s three championships with players Robert Bolick and Javee Mocon – who are now playing in the PBA.
Despite their early success, Fernandez said he keeps on reminding boys not to be complacent, particularly against teams at the lower half of the standings.
“We have to remind our players that we’re not an invincible team, that we have to treat each game very important, especially here in the second round since teams are eyeing Final Four slots,” said Fernandez, whose ultimate goal is to give San Beda its 23rd title.
As for the Generals, the only win they have so far was a stunning victory over the Pirates.
Since then, EAC has dropped eight straight although new coach Oliver Bunyi is optimistic on improving things.
The Chiefs have only two wins in 9 matches so far, but one of their victory came at the expense of the Pirates, 87-81, on Aug. 23.
On the other hand, Letran hopes to repeat against JRU after the Knights downed the Heavy Bombers, 55-43, last July 16. (Waylon Galvez)