Pirates take on lowly Cardinals

Games Today (The Arena, San Juan City) 12 noon – San Beda vs LSGH (Jrs) 2 p.m. – San Beda vs CSB (Srs) 4 p.m. – Lyceum vs Mapua (Srs) 6 p.m. – Lyceum vs Mapua (Jrs)

It is a battle between David and Goliath today when pacesetter Lyceum clashes with league doormat Mapua at the start of the second round in the 93rd NCAA men’s basketball at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Pirates stake their immaculate 9-0 record in their 4 p.m. tussle against the Cardinals, who, for their part, are aching to crawl out of the cellar with their 1-8 card.

Though fancied in the matchup after a 97-84 lopsided victory in their first meeting two weeks ago, Lyceum coach Topex Robinson and his stalwarts are more cautious this time.

“Every team is obviously going to step up in the second round. It’s going to get crucial, and I always remind my players to give it their best and maintain their composure,” said Robinson.

CJ Perez remains the heart and soul of Lyceum after averaging 18.6 points per game, but Robinson is not counting on one guy alone.

“Everyone knows that CJ is the anchor of this team, but they also know that every contribution from one another counts,” said Robinson, who also relies on Mike Nzesseu, Jesper Ayaay and Marcelino twins Jaycee and Jayvee.

Mapua, on the other hand, is not giving anything on a silver platter.

Though undermanned and without main player Andoy Estrella to MCL injury, the Cardinals seek to catch up with the other squads as quickly as possible.

Mapua coach Atoy Co casts his eyes on Christian Bunag, Leo Gabo and JB Raflores with hopes of pulling off a major surprise.

Equally exciting is the 2 p.m. duel between defending champion San Beda and College of St. Benilde.