CEBU, Philippines - Dethroned champion University of the Visayas Green Lancers hope to sweep the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars in their best-of-three battle for third place as they clash anew today in the 14th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. men's basketball tournament at the Cebu Coliseum.
Despite playing without their import Jeffakins Aguara and star forward Franz Arong who were suspended by the UV management for the rest of the season, the Lancers showed big fighting heart in a 67-61 victory over the Jaguars last Tuesday to move a win away from lifting the third place trophy.
It seems that being undermanned brings the best out of the Lancers as it opens the window of opportunity for the others to shine. Jerome Napao became the biggest revelation as he charted a career-high 20 points in powering UV to a morale-boosting victory.
As they seek a repeat over the Jaguars, the other local talents of UV must also step up in the likes of John Michael Abad, Rhaffy Octobre, Chris Perolino and Alfred Codilla among others.
The Jaguars, on the other hand, must wake up James Regalado from a deep offensive slumber if they want to extend their season for at least one more game. Regalado, their top gunner, was handcuffed to a season-low two points during their previous game.
Earlier this afternoon, the UV Baby Lancers and the University of Southern Philippines Foundation Baby Panthers will start their campaign in the second round of the juniors division semifinals when they clash head-on at 5:15 p.m. (GGM) (FREEMAN)