SAN BEDA-LPU MEGA COLLISION EXPLODES TODAY

POWERHOUSE teams San Beda University and Lyceum of the Philippines University clash anew today in Season 94 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) seniors basketball tournament at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.

The Red Lions (15-1) and the Pirates

collide head on in the lone game at 4 p.m.

Defending champion San Beda, bent on bouncing back from its 66-73

yet to win an elimination round game against the Pirates since 2016.

The Pirates swept the Lions in the eliminations last year but San Beda got a sweet revenge by sweeping the championship series.

But for now, the top spot heading into the Final Four is all that is on San Beda head coach Boyet Fernandez’s mind.

“We want to win so we can fortify our hold of the top spot and it will give us a positive outlook going to the playoffs,” said Fernandez.

“We know LPU is a very strong team, the No. 1 offensive team in the league. We just have to limit their production, stay close to them the whole game and get the win. Tough game but we are ready,” he added.

A win by the Lions will also secure them the No. 1 position, setting up

fourth seeded team.

San Beda is riding the momentum of a nine-game winning streak, their last triumph a 90- 52 demolition of Arellano University that handed them a twice-to-beat advantage.

Mainstay forward Javee Mocon, who pumped in a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds in the previous outing, is expected to lead the Lions’ charge with fellow veteran Robert Bolick and Cameroonian center Donald Tankoua.

On the other hand, Lyceum mentor Topex Robinson is looking forward to an intense fray against their esteemed rival.

at the end of the day it’s going to be fun because there’s so much competition between us and San Beda but there’s also so much respect for both teams,” said Robinson.

Lyceum also clinched a twicetoincentive at the expense of College of St. Benilde, 77-64.

Reigning Most Valuable Player CJ Perez is tabbed to steer the Pirates’ ship supported by Cameroonian big man Mike Nzeusseu and the Marcelino twins. Robinson will also lean on the prowess of playmaker Reymar Caduyac,

triumph .