Knights, Pirates go for second win today

MANILA, Philippines - Letran and Lyceum take on separate rivals today, both looking for a second straight victory and a share of the lead in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Knights, who subdued the San Sebastian Stags, 74-69, in last weekend’s inaugurals, battle the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals at 6 p.m. after the Pirates, who debuted with a shock 70-66 win over the three-peat champion San Beda Red Lions last Monday, clash with the Arellano U Chiefs at 4 p.m.

While Letran and Lyceum gun for win No. 2, EAC and Arellano are seeking to bounce back from opening game setbacks, guaranteeing another pair of slam-bang encounters.

Focus will be on Raymond Almazan, who had a monster game of 15 points, 20 rebounds and five blocks that more than made up for the absence of Kevin Alas, who skipped his final year of eligibility to focus on Gilas’ cadet team, and Jam Cortes, who completed his tour of duty with the team.

“Raymond is the backbone of the team not only because of his defense but also his offense,” said Letran coach Caloy Garcia.

The Pirates, meanwhile, are on high after taming the Lions, whom they dominated from start to finish with near impeccable outside shooting and inside game.

It was Lyceum’s first win of San Beda since it joined the league in 2011.

“That win over San Beda is so huge we hope to build something from it,” said Lyceum mentor Boni Tan.