Struggling NCAA teams clash today

MANILA—Four teams looking to end their losing skids take the floor Monday in the 87th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Guest team Lyceum, which lost its last two games, tries to firm up its grip of the No. 4 spot when it clashes with Jose Rizal U at 11:45 a.m. while Mapua and Perpetual Help tangle at 4 p.m.

Ace shooters Chris Cayabyab and Floricel Guevarra have been giving Lyceum the offensive punch and they will again be relied on today, while Allan Santos has provided the toughness inside the paint.

Lyceum, however, will have its hands full against a JRU squad determined to end a three-game skid.

The Bombers are coming off a tough 69-77 loss to defending champion San Beda last Wednesday.

But JRU can take comfort in the fact that it managed to take a double-digit first half lead against the Lions, before fading in the last two quarters.

The Pirates, who absorbed heavy losses to San Sebastian and Letran, will finish the first round at No. 4 if they sweep their remaining assignments.

Tagged as a title contender with its experienced lineup, the Cardinals have yet to live up to the hype, losing six of their first eight games this season.

Cardinals coach Chito Victolero has been looking for consistency from his team, bannered by 6-foot-7 Yousef Taha and spitfire guard Allan Mangahas.

Perpetual Help’s lack of personnel has been exposed this season with the Altas struggling to find a go-to-guy down the stretch.