THE Mapua University Cardinals are brimming with confidence going into their game with the University of Perpetual Help Altas at 4 p.m. today at their own home court at the Mapua gym in Intramuros.
Beating the Letran Knights, 78-75, last week with key players not around kept the team’s morale in the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
“Kahit nawala sina Allwell (Oraeme), (Darren) Menina, (Exequiel) Biteng at (Justine) Serrano, naipakita namin sa mga doubters namin na kaya naming manalo,” said Andrew Estrella, the Cardinals’ team skipper.
In posting their second win in three games, the Cardinals are hoping to join San Beda and Arellano University at second spot.
On the other hand, the Altas are gunning for their very first win.
In the junior division, the Red Robins will go for their third straight triumph when they meet the Junior Altas at 2 p.m.
Last week, Estrella led Mapua’s win with a team-best 18 points including clutch plays in the fourth quarter, while adding seven rebounds and seven assists.
Perpetual Help started the season with a pair of defeats, including a 54-68 loss to Jose Rizal University last Friday.
The Altas are trying to getting used to Prince Eze taking the heavy load for the team.
And that’s after the departure of his fellow Nigerian Bright Akhuetie, who left after playing two seasons with the Las Pinas-based school to join University of the Philippines.
“It’s a long process and we will try to be patient with it and stay positive as much as we can,” said Perpetual Help team spokesman Jimwell Gican.
The league’s Mapua visit is part of the “NCAA on Tour” wherein the league will bring the sport directly to its students and alumni by holding one senior game every Thursday.
Games today (Mapua Gym)
2 p.m.- Mapua vs Perpetual Help (jrs)
4 p.m.- Mapua vs Perpetual Help (srs)