Top 4 teams jockey for NCAA positions

MANILA, Philippines - The top four teams slug it out today in a pair of big matches that would help determine the Final Four pairings with unbeaten San Beda facing off with Jose Rizal and San Sebastian taking on Mapua in the 86th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Lions, unscathed in 13 games, go for the twice-to-beat bonus in the semis while the third running Bombers (11-3), hope to stay in the race for the other Final Four incentive starting at 2 p.m.

The Stags, in second with a 12-1 record, shoot for at least a playoff for the other twice-to-beat edge as it battles the fourth-running Cardinals (8-5), who are out to formalize their stint in the next round.

Skipper Borgie Hermida is expected to be back after missing the Lions’ last two games, including in their 70-54 rout of the Arellano U Chiefs last Friday.

The win, its 13th straight, assured San Beda of at least a playoff for the Final Four bonus with the Red Lions slightly fancied to repeat over the Bombers.

“We will definitely go all out for a win but it won’t be easy because we know Jose Rizal is a tough team,” said San Beda coach Frankie Lim.

The Bombers, who dumped the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals, 76-50, for their 11th win against three losses last Wednesday, have vowed to give their best shot against the Lions.

“It’s going to be tough beating San Beda but we will give it our best to accomplish it,” said Jose Rizal mentor Vergel Meneses.

The Stags, meanwhile, are wary of the taller Cardinals but remain confident of their chances to catch up with the Lions.

“This is going to be another big game, a test for us,” said San Sebastian coach Ato Agustin.