NCAA: Lions picked to roar all the way
Coaches and team officials, from left, Vic Lazaro of JRU, Boyet Fernandez of SBC, Ariel Sison of EAC, Egay Macaraya of SSC-R, Atoy Co of Mapua, Topex Robinson of LPU, Jerry Codiñera of Arellano, Jeff Napa of Letran, Jimwel Gican of Perpetual and TY Tang of St. Benilde join hands for the success of the NCAA Season 93 during its media launch at the MOA Arena yesterday. JOEY MENDOZA
MANILA, Philippines - San Beda liked how its rivals regard the Lions heading to Season 93 of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament and vowed to stay focused on the task at hand.
“I’m thankful that they think big of us,” said San Beda coach Boyet Fernandez in yesterday’s press conference at the MOA Arena. “Though it will be added pressure for us, our main goal is still winning the championship.”
Coaches of all the participating teams had pointed to the Lions as the team to beat again this season, citing San Beda’s intact roster, the return of reinforcement Donald Tankoua plus a pair of new talented recruits.
The Lions’ victory over Ben Mbala and the reigning UAAP champion La Salle Archers in the recent Filoil Flying V Premier Cup Finals also bolstered their drive for another crack at the NCAA championship.
Robert Bolick, Javee Mocon, last year’s Finals MVP Arnaud Noah, Ben Adamos, skipper Jomari Presbitero and Davon Potts make up San Beda’s core with Tankoua expected to rebound after missing the second round last year on an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury.
Tranferees Clint Doliguez and 6-8 Kenmark Carino have also showed their worth heading to Saturday’s inaugurals where the Lions will be clashing with long-rivals San Sebastian Stags at 2 p.m.
Last year’s runner-up Arellano U will play Mapua in the main game at 4 p.m.
The opening ceremony is scheduled at 12 noon with the league honoring two outstanding alumni from each of the 10 participating schools with host San Sebastian feting Rommel Adducul and Calvin Abueva.
This year’s theme is “Reignite: Braver, Bolder, Stronger.”
League president and Policy Board chair Fr. Nemesio Tolentin, OAR, of SSC said the league will also bring the games straight to the students through the “NCAA on Tour” with some members schools to host a game on Thursdays.
“This is part of our celebration towards the NCAA’s 100-year anniversary,” said Tolentin, who was accompanied by fellow school owners and presidents and Management Committee members.
Lyceum of the Phl U, Jose Rizal U and SSC have also been installed as early title contenders following impressive pre-season performances, including the Pirates’ third place effort in the Premier Cup.
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