Griffins seek share of UCBL lead

Games Today (Olivarez College gym) 12 noon – Lyceum-Batangas vs TIP 2 p.m. – CdSL vs BulSU

Action in the Universities and Colleges Basketball League (UCBL) Season 2 resumes today at the Olivarez College gym in Sucat, Parañaque City with Colegio de San Lorenzo out to gain a share of the lead against Bulacan State University.

Just half-a-game behind defending champion Centro Escolar University (12-1), the Griffins (11-1) intend to stretch their winning streak to six matches as they go for a repeat victory in their 2 p.m. showdown with the also-ran Gold Gears (3-9).

CdSL, fresh from a 10-day break, should come in with renewed energy and that’s exactly what Griffins coach Boni Garcia is expecting from his charges as they prime themselves up for an awaited rematch with the Scorpions this weekend.

“The long break did us good in terms of giving my banged-up players enough time to recuperate,” he said. “That’s why I’m expecting nothing less that they will take care of our business.”

Squaring off in a no-bearing showdown at 12 noon are eliminated teams Technological Institute of the Philippines (4-9) and Lyceum-Batangas (3-10), both eager to close out their respective campaigns on a positive note.

The Engineers made quick work of the Pirates, 83-68, in their previous meeting last Sept. 28 and coach Potit de Vera urged his wards to make the most out of their final chance which they can serve them in good stead for the future.

“We failed to meet our expectations for this year but I’m still trying to challenge to do their best. We need to do those little things the right way and that starts with our final game against the Pirates,” he said.

All eyes, however, will be on the main match, with Benin native Soulemane Chabi Yo expected to lead the Griffins’ attack alongside top locals Jan Formento, Charles Callano and John Rojas who have been doing a commendable job filling up the void left by ace center Jon Gabriel, now with Phoenix in the pro ranks.