SAN Beda College is getting ready to fight their way back into the finals on two fronts when the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament begins with the men’s competition at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City today.
For returning coach Boyet Fernandez, the defending champion Red Lions won’t be underestimating the San Sebastian Stags when they plunge into action in the opening game at 2 p.m.
Later at 4 p.m., the Arellano Chiefs take on the Allwell Oraeme-less Mapua Cardinals.
Meanwhile, the Red Cubs will count on an almost intact roster when they start their own journey to regain the crown they lost last when junior action begins on Sunday at the Letran gym in Intramuros.
The Red Lions, who still have the core of the team that beat the Arellano University Chiefs in the finals, will be getting ready to meet a well-coached team in the Stags.
“They (Stags) won seven of nine games at the end of the second round last year. They did well in their pre-season matches. And it’s going to be a tough situation for us,” said Fernandez on their initial encounter with the Stags this season.
SSC is bracing for the return of Michael Calisaan, who is back in full strength after missing the early part of last season due to a motorcycle accident.
Calisaan is expected to be one of the reasons for the Stags’ sudden resurgence.
“You will see a different Calisaan this year,” said San Sebastian mentor Egay Macaraya.
Fernandez is counting on main man Robert Bolick to provide leadership, following a strong pre-season performance.
On the other hand, Javee Mocon, Jomari Presbitero, Ben Adamos, AC Soberano, Davon Potts and Cameroonians Arnauh Noah and Donald Tankoua are expected to provide experience with their steady presence on court.
Meanwhile, Red Cubs’ coach JB Sison said the team is hoping to do well when they start their campaign against the San Sebastian Staglets on Sunday at 1 p.m.
The squad lost only Miguel Bonalos, who transferred to La Salle Zobel.
In his place in rookie cager Kai Oliva.
Three players are recovering from injury and one of their guards in Evan Nelle is expected to rejoin them after a stint in China.
Sison said the squad will be prepared for a competitive season as the defending champion Mapua Red Robins are still the team to beat.
On the other hand, a stronger Letran Squires squad, as well as a better Lyceum Junior Pirates’ team and Staglets are also expected to pull off some surprises.