Lions battle Benilde; Chiefs vs Generals

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda hopes to keep the solo lead as it clashes with lowly St. Benilde even as Emiliio Aguinaldo seeks a follow-up to its shock win over San Sebastian against Arellano U today in the 88th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Lions pummeled the Lyceum Pirates, 77-47, last week to remain on top with the defending champions fancied to nail their ninth win in 11 games against the Blazers (3-7) in their 6 p.m. encounter.

“We will need to play the same kind of defense we played in our last game for us to continue winning,” said San Beda coach Ronnie Magsanoc.

EAC, meanwhile, hopes to ride the momentum of its king-sized 77-67 upset win over San Sebastian as it goes for its fourth win in 11 games against Arellano U.

The Chiefs, (4-6), are also coming off a morale-boosting 85-82 win over Jose Rizal Monday, making their 4 p.m. clash a match to watch.

“It’s a big boost to the team,” said EAC coach Gerry Esplana, back at the helm after a one-game suspension.

But the Chiefs remain confident of their chances.

“The key is always to stay positive,” said Arellano U mentor Koy.