The San Sebastian Stags will play as a complete team now that one of their veteran starters is back.
Allyn Bulanadi, who suffered a right shoulder injury last month, is expected to spend more time on the floor and lead his teammates in their 2 p.m. encounter with the Mapua University Cardinals today in the 95th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
“I was not hoping na hindi siya lalaro, pero he was forcing me para maramdaman niya ang NCAA,” said coach Edgar Macaraya after their first game of the season at The Arena in San Juan.
When Bulanadi briefly entered the court against the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers on Tuesday, he produced seven points on 3-of-3 shooting in two minutes of play.
In their opening game, Alvin Capobres tallied 16 points, six rebounds and two assists for San Sebastian as they demolished the Heavy Bombers.
A second straight win will allow the Stags to share the lead with the defending champion San Beda University Red Lions.
The Cardinals are reeling from a 78-80 loss to the University of Perpetual Help Altas.
Earlier, the Letran Knights clash with the Heavy Bombers at 12 noon, while the Perpetual Altas meet the College of St. Benilde Blazers at 4 p.m.
The Altas and the Blazers are also after a share of the top spot with the Red Lions.
In junior action, the Junior Altas battle La Salle Greenhills Greenies at 6 p.m., with an eye on no. 2 and a chance to catch up with leaders San Beda and Lyceum.
