League titans San Beda and College of St. Benilde will face off on Tuesday, September 9, at 2:30 PM at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City, aiming to secure an early solo lead in the NCAA Season 100 men's basketball tournament.
The Red Lions, reigning champions, and the Blazers, last season's bronze medalists, are both looking to build on their impressive opening-day victories on Saturday, September 7. San Beda defeated Lyceum, 79-63, while St. Benilde upset Mapua, 78-65.
Bryan Sajonia, a promising recruit from Far Eastern University, is expected to continue his strong performance for San Beda after scoring a team-high 18 points, including three triples, against Lyceum. Veteran Yukien Andrada is also anticipated to contribute offensively, having scored 13 points and grabbed six rebounds in their previous game.
San Beda coach Yuri Escueta and his players are embracing the challenge of facing tough teams early in the season. "Our schedule is tough, the first two games are against strong opponents," Escueta said.
St. Benilde coach Charles Tiu shared a similar sentiment following his team's victory over Mapua. "It was a good game. We started it on defense," Tiu said.
Tiu is particularly impressed with Allen Liwag, who previously played for Emilio Aguinaldo College, after he scored 23 points, grabbed 18 rebounds, and dished out 18 assists against Mapua. Former San Beda star Gab Cometa, who came off the bench, also contributed significantly with 17 points.
Meanwhile, University of Perpetual Help and Jose Rizal University will open their respective campaigns in their 11 AM matchup.
The Altas, now coached by veteran Olsen Racela, will feature a young lineup featuring former NCAA juniors standouts Mark Gojo Cruz and Ruvic Danag. The team has lost key players like Jielo Razon, Jun Roque, Cyrus Nitura, Mark Denver Omega, and Carlos Ferreras.
The Bombers also suffered key losses in Ry Dela Rosa and Agem Miranda and will be aiming for a strong start to the season.
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