CEBU, Philippines - Going back to the finals for the second straight year will be the sole intention of the Southwestern University Cobras when they go up against the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars in the semifinal round of the 14th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Incorporated men's basketball tournament today at the Cebu Coliseum.
The Cobras and Jaguars face off at 6:45 p.m., right after the University of San Carlos Baby Warriors gun for an outright semis berth when they
tackle the University of Southern Philippines Foundation Baby Panthers in the juniors division at 5:15 p.m.
Armed with a twice-to-beat advantage, the Cobras needed only a win to barge into the championship round and if they do, they don't have any chance of avenging that unfortunate setback they suffered at the hands of the University of the Visayas Green Lancers in last year's finals.
Instead, a USC-SWU finals showdown is brewing up for the first time after the Warriors dethroned the Green Lancers via a 69-61 decision last Tuesday night.
The Cobras of coach Raul "Yayoy" D. Alcoseba are the odds-on favorites, but the interesting thing is that the Jaguars beat them by 11 points, 84-73, during their last meeting on September 13.
The Jaguars are out to prove that that victory is no fluke, but it would be a a tall order for them ranged against the mighty Cobras, who have great advantage manpower wise.
The Cobras are loaded with a superior offensive arsenal compared to the fourth-seed Jaguars, who can only boast for one gangling import in Quentin Luzoladio. He maybe not an offensive threat but his inside presence is a big help for USJ-R in neutralizing SWU's big men Landry Sanjo, Bernie Bregondo and Daryl Goloran at the paint.
Also, the Cobras can rely on the likes of Mark Jayven Tallo, Jasper Parker, Melvin Holper and 3-point king Anton Tomas Pardo as they bid to barge into the finals for the third consecutive time.
For the Jaguars side, three local players are out to prove their worth in long-range bomber James Regalado, hardworking big man Kevin Villafranca, and speed demon Mark Labares. USJ-R can also count on Renzo Senining, Iron Suano, Raymond Catipay, Fletcher Galvez, Kyle Lajato, Jim Custan and Nelvin Navarra in their campaign to stay alive. (FREEMAN)