Season 94 will be a tough season for the San Beda Red Lions.
That’s how team manager Jude Roque sees it as they prepare for the 94th National College Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
“A lot of teams are doing well, it’s going to be a tough season,” said Roque.
Coach Boyet Fernandez made an effort to improve on the level of play of the Red Lions last month.
Working on the cohesiveness of the team was the focus of their training when they went to Fort Lauderdale, Florida last month for a two week camp
The Red Lions had an opportunity to train with Gannon Baker, regarded as one of the premier basketball skills’ trainers in the world.
In the United States, Baker has trained players in the National Basketball Association, the US National Collegiate Athletic Association, high school and middle school levels since 2001.
Roque said they are not just worried about the Lyceum Pirates, whom they fought for the crown last season.
Even a lowly team like the College of St. Benilde Blazers have improved with a new coach in TY Tang.
“More teams are getting better. I’m expecting a competitive season,” added Roque.
There are plenty of new faces, who could be part of the San Beda University Red Lions in Season 94, with Davon Potts as the only player leaving the team.
The presence of 6’6” slotman Damie Cuntapay could give the Red Lions a taller frontline.
Cuntapay, who averaged 6.3 points and 6.5 rebounds, during his time with San Sebastian Staglets, is among the latest newbies vying for slots in Team A.
He joined Red Cubs standout and point guard Evan Nelle, who is one of two members of the junior squad that’s committed to stay put and remain and play for the school.
Cuntapay, along with forward Peter Alfaro, who came from the Red Cubs with Nelle, was given the chance to join the Red Lions in their training camp.
He was part of a San Sebastian Staglets’ team that made it to the Final Four of the NCAA junior division for the first time in years.