Battle of attrition seen in ‘NC’ Finals

by Kristel Satumbaga

The San Beda Red Lions hope to sustain their winning tradition as they gun for their third straight crown as the NCAA men’s basketball title series starts on Tuesday.

“That’s always the goal of the team: doing what the (San Beda) community wants us to do and defend the crown,” said San Beda mentor Boyet Fernandez shortly after ousting University of Perpetual Help in their Final Four matchup last week.

San Beda has already built a dynasty in the fabled history of the league, winning a total of 21 titles in the men’s division alone.

Not only that, the Lions are also playing in the finals for the 13th straight time which is already an achievement.

They are also hoping to nail their 8th crown in 9 years which speaks volume of the school’s successful program.

Fernandez and his players are all convinced the best-of-three series will go the distance since they expect the Lyceum Pirates to prepare as hard as they can to avenge their defeat last season.

But it’s going to be an interesting one.

“This year, it’s an even matchup against Lyceum: we won by seven points against them in the first round; they won by seven points against us in the second. So it’s going to be interesting,” said Fernandez.

Graduating star Robert Bolick waxed sentimental of the title series as he wants to make the most out of his remaining games with the squad.

“I’m happy that I am able to play my last year in the finals, but it will be more fun if we’ll win the title,” said Bolick.

Game 1 of the best-of-three finals will be on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.