Mapua tries to cling on to No. 2 as it tangles with a slumping Letran even as San Beda aims to stay at No. 3 as it clashes with University of Perpetual Help today in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcOil Arena.
The Cardinals have kept their lofty perch at second following an 82-79 squeaker over the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals Tuesday and should close in on the pace-setting St. Benilde Blazers (9-2) with a win over the Knights in their 2:30 p.m. encounter.
Reigning MVP Clint Escamis was at his usual best and fired a match-best 23 points while Marc Cuenco scattered 16 points including that crucial three-pointer late that sealed the deal.
“Sila naman talaga inaasahan sa team,” said Mapua coach Randy Alcantara referring to his dynamic, high scoring Escamis-Cuenco duo.
While Mapua is battling to stay in the top two, Letran is on a slippery slope and trying to cling on to its precarious place inside the magic four that they currently share with the Lyceum of the Philippines U Pirates with a 6-5 mark apiece.
Expect an epic duel between teams being tipped to make it to the Final Four.
Interestingly, Mapua will play minus starting center Marc Igliane while Letran will be without its primary attacker Jimboy Estrada, who were both suspended for a game for their unsportsmanlike behavior the last time out.
“Gusto sana namin nandiyan si Igliane kasi maliit na nga kami, nabawasan pa kami ng isa,” said Alcantara. “Pero nandyan na ‘yan, kailangan lang mag-step up ng iba.”
The Lions, currently at third with a 7-4 slate, for their part, will try to move up the ladder as they collide with the Altas, who at joint sixth with the Generals on 5-6 marks, are fighting for dear Final Four life.
They play at 12 noon.
Games Friday (Filoil EcoOil Arena)
12 noon- San Beda vs UPHSD
2:30 p.m.- Mapua vs Letran
