LETRAN stakes its unbeaten record and the sole possession of the lead when it takes on Arellano University in the featured contest of the 91st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) seniors’ basketball tournament on Friday at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan City.
The overachieving Knights and the Chiefs clash at 4 p.m.
Season host Mapúa, meanwhile, tries to move into the top half of the standings as it battles Lyceum of the Philippines University at 2 p.m., while struggling San Sebastian College and Emilio Aguinaldo College clash at 12 noon.
In juniors play, Mapua (4-1) takes on Lyceum (3-2) at 10 a.m. and Arellano University (4-1) faces Letran (2-3) at 6 p.m.
Despite their early success against three of the top 4 squads from last season, including a 79-71 victory over Perpetual Help on July 23, Letran Head Coach Aldin Ayo said they are far from their target—the championship.
“We’re just in the right spot, in a good position right now. In terms of achievement, we haven’t achieved anything yet. It’s a long way to go. May 13 games pa kami. That’s it,” Ayo said.
Arellano Head Coach Jerry Codiñera, on the other hand, said they could guarantee to fully solve Letran’s maze-like defense, but stressed they have made proper adjustments to stay within their style of play.
“Letran is back. Siyempre, the competition is getting tighter and other teams are also finding ways to win. The wins and losses are very glaring para sa amin, but we have to come out prepared, as well,” Codiñera said.
Standings (seniors)—Letran 5-0, San Beda 5-1, Arellano 4-1, Perpetual 4-2, JRU 4-2, Mapúa 2-3, San Sebastian 1-4, Lyceum 1-4, Saint Benilde 1-5, EAC 0-5.