NCAA: Codiñera targets Final Four finish for Chiefs

MANILA, Philippines - With an intact roster and a new coach, Arellano U hopes to buck the odds and make the Final Four in the 90th NCAA men’s basketball tournament unfolding this week at SM Mall of Asia Arena.

“It’s not a promise but I hope I could help my team make the Final Four this year,” said Jerry Codiñera, the former University of the East mentor in the UAAP who took over from Koy Banal during the off-season.

Prince Caperal, Keith Agovida, John Pinto, Nichole Bangga, Levi Hernandez, Ralph Salcedo and Julius Cadavis banner the Arellano side raring to slug it out with the league’s fancied teams after finishing sixth last year.

Fil-Canadian shooter Zach Nichols will also suit up for the Chiefs this year together with Isiah Ciriacruz, who played for Arellano in the school’s first two seasons in the NCAA but took a three-year hiatus.

Rookie Fil-Ams Dioncee Holts and David Ortega also hope to make an immediate impact as they try to fill the void left by Fil-Canadians James Forrester and AJ Serjue.

“With an intact line up, I like our chances this season,” said Codiñera, who is expected to put more emphasis on defense, being a top defensive player during his prime.

“Although we’re a more balanced team this year, my concern is to instill to my players the importance of defense,” said Codiñera, who also stressed the importance of hard work and discipline.