LPU Pirates target 4th win vs Chiefs

MANILA, Philippines - Lyceum of the Philippines University hopes to sustain its amazing start as it guns for a fourth straight win against Arellano U in the 93rd NCAA men’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Arena in San Juan today.

The Pirates are off to a hot start behind new recruits CJ Perez from Ateneo and twins Jayvee and Jaycee Marcelino from Adamson, beating Jose Rizal U, 96-75, defending champion San Beda, 96-91, and San Sebastian, 78-73, to remain the only unbeaten team in the 10-team field.

LPU coach Topex Robinson, however, has opted to downplay his wards’ scorching start.

“We’re happy but we’re trying hard to temper our expectations and focus on our mission,” said Robinson.

They hope to extend their run to four as they tangle with the Chiefs, who snatched a 73-72 win over the Bombers last week, at 2 p.m.

While Robinson is expected to rely again on Perez and the Marcelinos, Arellano U coach Jerry Codiñera will pin his hopes on Kent Salado, who scored 25 points, including the game-winner against JRU.