MANILA, Philippines -- San Beda seeks to rely on Arthur dela Cruz' consistent strong play as it tackles Jose Rizal Thursday for the solo lead in the 91st NCAA basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.
Dela Cruz, drafted ninth overall by Blackwater in this year's PBA rookie draft, has been having an MVP season with averages of 20.36 points (second league best), 12.09 rebounds (fourth) and 6.09 assists (third).
He was instrumental in San Beda's victories over Emilio Aguinaldo, 96-84, and St. Benilde, 89-63.
Interestingly, dela Cruz also shone the brightest the last time San Beda clashed with Jose Rizal as he exploded for 29 points and finished with six boards, nine assists and four steals in an 88-69n win on Aug. 15.
"He's been having a great season, hope he keeps it up," said San Beda coach Jamike Jarin of dela Cruz.
A win in their 4 p.m. duel will clinch San Beda the solo lead and leave Letran to second place with a 9-2 mark.
The Bombers are also hoping to use their 114-112 double overtime win over the Arellano U Chiefs last week to come up with a big game against the heavily favored Lions.
"We need to limit them to less than 80 for us to have a chance to beat them," said Jose Rizal mentor Vergel Meneses.
Meanwhile, Mapua hopes to ride the crest of its shock 70-65 upset of Perpetual Help a week back as it faces off with an unpredictable San Sebastian set at 2 p.m.
The Cardinals, who are currently at No. 5 with a 5-5 card, though will still be without CJ Isit (dislocated elbow) and Andretti Stevens while Josan Nimes is expected to return to action today though in limited minutes.