MANILA—Mapua University’s Cardinals and the College of Saint Benilde Blazers are set to continue their battle for the top spot in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Season 100 men’s basketball tournament. Both teams will face challenging opponents at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday, with the Cardinals taking on the San Beda University Red Lions, and the Blazers facing the Jose Rizal University Altas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Cardinals, currently tied for the lead with the Blazers at a 6-2 record, are eyeing their fourth straight win. Mapua’s latest victory came against Arellano University last Wednesday, with a score of 77-71. “We still have to work more,” said Mapua coach Randy Alcantara, expressing cautious optimism while banking on reigning MVP Clint Escamis to lead the team.
The Blazers, on the other hand, faced a mixed fortune in their recent games, securing a thrilling 96-94 overtime victory against San Sebastian College-Recoletos but falling shortly after to Arellano with a close score of 71-73. Their upcoming match against JRU at 11 a.m. is crucial as they strive to maintain their lead.
San Beda, positioned in solo third with a 5-3 record, is coming off a narrow 63-62 win over the University of Perpetual Help last Friday. The Red Lions are poised to challenge the Cardinals in what promises to be a pivotal game at 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, JRU is hoping to strengthen its bid for a semifinal spot after securing a 75-63 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College. JRU coach Louie Gonzales emphasized readiness and determination: “We’ll try to give them a good fight,” he said. JRU is currently tied for fifth place with EAC at a 3-5 record.
The NCAA basketball action continues with the EAC Generals facing off against the San Sebastian College-Recoletos Stags at 5 p.m., adding another layer of competition to an intense tournament day.