THE Letran Knights, the University Perpetual Help Altas and the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers will start their respective bids when they take on different foes in the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament today at the Arena in San Juan.
Fifth-year swingman Rey Nambatac, along with Bong Quinto, JP Calvo, and Jerrick Balanza, are now the new leaders of the Knights. They are expected to take charge when they meet the Mapua Cardinals at 4 p.m.
“Sila na ngayon ang veterans na aasahan ko,” said Knights’ coach Jeff Napa, who is now in his second year with the Knights.
The Cardinals, who are coming off an 82-91 loss to the Arellano University Chiefs, are without two-time MVP Allwell Oraeme and will bank on the experience of Laurenz Victoria and Andrew Estrella to keep them afloat.
The Altas will play the College of St. Benilde Blazers at 12 noon, while the JRU Heavy Bombers meet Lyceum of the Philippines University at 2 p.m.
After losing Nigerian Bright Akhuetie, the Altas have remained intact with another Nigerian Prince Eze expected to carry the load for them.
Gab Dagangon, AJ Coronel, Keith Pido, Flash Sadiwa, Jack Hao, Daryl Singontiko and JG Ylagan are also back this season.
“We’re moving forward and optimistic of our chances this year, even though we lost a key piece in our team,” said Perpetual Help coach Nosa Omorogbe.
JRU still has the core of its roster from a season ago, with the likes of Teytey Teodoro, John Grospe, Gio Lasquety, Mark dela Virgen, Ghana’s Abdul Razak Abdul Wahab and Cameroon’s Abdel Potouochi.
The strength of LPU’s game lies in the presence of CJ Perez from Ateneo, Spencer Pretta from San Sebastian and the Marcelino twins, Jayvee and Jaycee. Peter Atencio
They will reinforce a roster composed of Cameroonian Mark Harry Nzeusseu, Wilson Baltazar, Mer Ayaay, Reymar Caduyac and Edcor Marata.
Pirates’ coach Topex Robinson said they will rely on their speed and shooting to make up for their lack of height.
Games Today (at the Arena)
8 a.m.- Perpetual Help vs CSB (jrs)
10 a.m.- JRU vs LPU (jrs)
12 nn.- Perpetual Help vs CSB (srs)
2 p.m.- JRU vs LPU (srs)
4 p.m.- Letran vs Mapua (srs)
6 p.m.- Letran vs Mapua (jrs)