Lions, Knights finally go at it

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda and Letran finally get to meet today after two postponed games with the Red Lions and the Knights out to recover lost grounds in the 88th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan today.

The 6 p.m. showdown was postponed twice due to inclement weather, including last week when monsoon rains that caused massive flooding in the National Capital Region forced the league to cancel the games again.

“We’re eager to play them, I hope it doesn’t get postponed again,” said Letran coach Louie Alas.

“It’s always something to watch out for whenever San Beda and Letran play each other,” San Beda mentor Ronnie Magsanoc said.

The Knights are raring to atone for their 83-101 blowout to the Jose Rizal Bombers last Monday.

So do the Lions, who are smarting from 71-80 defeat at the hands of the San Sebastian Stags.

SSC and JRU victories put them on top of the heap at 7-2 while the loss dropped the defending champion San Beda to third at 6-2.

But a victory over the Knights will force a three-way tie for the lead.

Letran also dropped to 4-4 for solo fifth behind fourth-running Perpetual Help (6-3).

Meanwhile, Mapua and Arellano U try to keep the momentum of their recent wins as they collide in the 4 p.m. contest.

The Cardinals pulled the rug from under the heavily favored Stags, 61-54, last Aug. 6 while the Chiefs surprised the Altas, 63-54, to remain tied at 3-5.

“We hope our win against San Sebastian is the start of something big for us,” said Mapua coach Chito Victolero.

But the Chiefs are equally determined to make it two-in-a-row and close out its first round stint on a winning note.

“It will be nice to go to the second round with a win and momentum on our side so this game is really important for us,” said Arellano U mentor Koy Banal.