Senate, NHA gun for semis slots in UNTV

MANILA, Philippines — Defending champion Senate and National Housing Authority (NHA) try to complete the semis cast when they collide against their respective rivals in the seventh UNTV Cup today  at the Pasig City Sports Center.

The Senate Defenders of Mike Fermin battle the Malacañang-Philippine Sports Commission at 5 p.m. while the NHA Builders of Bennet Palad take on the PITC Global Trader at 3 p.m.

The Builders forged a three-way tie for second to fourth placers with Malacañang-PSC and PITC at 6-5 following a stunning 89-82 win over the Defenders last Sunday.

The defeat ended Senate’s four-game winning run dating back the elims but remained on top with a 7-4 record.

One thing going for the Defenders in today’s game is they will be facing a team still reeling from a fourth straight.

The top two finishers at the close of the quarterfinal round will join early semifinalists Armed Forces of the Philippines and Phl National Police in the next phase which is a best-of-three affair.

The chosen charity of the champion in the tournament organized by UNTV president and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon for public servants receives P4 million while the charity of the runner-up gets P2 million.

Out to lead NHA’s attack are Antonio Lustestica, Alvin Vitug and Marvin Mercado who all posted double figures in their win over the Defenders.

Haddi Porto, Ryan Regaldo and Rod Vasallo, on their part, need to sustain their inspired showing the last time if they are to advance to the semis in their maiden campaign in the annual tournament.