Falcons target 2nd Premier Cup win vs Stags

MANILA, Philippines -  Adamson guns for the solo lead as it tangles with San Sebastian College today even as Mapua debuts minus Nigerian Allwell Oraeme against St. Benilde in the Filoil Flying V Premier Cup at the Filoil Flying V Center in San Juan.

The Franz Pumaren-mentored Falcons turned back the Arellano U Chiefs, last year’s NCAA runners-up, 61-56, in Monday’s opener with the San Marcelino-based squad seeking another win in their 3:15 p.m. duel with the Stags for the early lead in Group B.

The Cardinals, for their part, will suit up without Oraeme, the back-to-back MVP of the last two NCAA seasons who has reportedly flew back to Nigeria.

Mapua will take on a St. Benilde team now mentored by former La Salle star and ex-pro TY Tang in their 1:30 p.m. showdown.

Mapua coach Atoy Co, however, will have new recruits Bryan Samudio, Sherwin Concepcion and Jasper Selanga, who decided to stay with the school after steering the Robins to a title victory over the San Beda Cubs in last year’s NCAA juniors finals.

Dawn Ochea came out with the best effort in Adamson’s first win as he poured in 14 points against an Arellano U squad which lost Jio Jalalon, who had turned pro last year though he was still eligible for one more season.

Ateneo, meanwhile, tries to bounce back from a heartbreaking 89-90 defeat to Lyceum of the Phl as it squares off with University of the East at 5 p.m.