MANILA, Philippines -- Arellano University hopes to rely anew on the inspired play by Jio Jalalon as it shoots for a third straight win and solo third place as it tackles Lyceum in the 91st NCAA basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City on Tuesday.
Jalalon posted his second triple-double effort--32 points, 15 assists and 10 rebounds--in an 84-77 overtime win over Perpetual Help last Friday and should come a little revved up when they face off with the Pirates at 4 p.m.
"If Jio can play like that every game and our role players play their roles, we'll be okay," said Arellano coach Jerry Codinera of Jalalon.
Codinera though was a little wary of Lyceum, which gave them problems in their first round meeting that ended in an ugly 80-78 win on July 3.
"Lyceum is stronger than its (3-9) win-loss record, it would be a mistake to underestimate them," he said.
Lyceum has been missing Joseph Gabayni in its last two games that led to losses to Perpetual Help and Letran.
Gabayni is reportedly returning today following a school-imposed suspension and should help boost a weak frontline anchored solely on Cameroonian Jean Victor Nguidjol, who have averaged in double-double during the former's absence.
Meanwhile, Jose Rizal and Mapua, which are currently tied at No. 5 with a 6-5 slate apiece , collide at 2 p.m. eyeing no less than closing in on Perpetual Help and Arellano, which are two full games ahead of the former two.
The Cardinals are riding the crest of a two-game streak they capped with an 87-78 triumph over the San Sebastian Stags last week.
That win also marked the return of Josan Nimes from a three-game absence due to hamstring issues.
Nimes returned with a bang as he finished with 18 points and six assists, which proved to be a shot in the arm for a Mapua team still missing two of its leader--CJ Isit (elbow) and Andretti Stevens (ankle).
Mapua will play a Jose Rizal team itching to bounce back from a heartbreking 75-83 defeat to San Beda Thursday.