Perpetual, JRU threats to San Beda NCAA reign

MANILA, Philippines — Coming off stellar performances in the preseason, Jose Rizal U and Perpetual Help loom as solid threats to break San Beda’s title stranglehold in the NCAA Season 90 basketball tournament that opens June 28 at Mall of Asia Arena.

The Heavy Bombers reached the quarterfinals of the recent Filoil Flying V Premier Cup, while the Altas ruled the Fr. Martin Cup to boost their credentials as contenders.

San Beda is seeking a fifth straight crown with an almost intact roster from last season when the Lions nailed a record 18th crown at the expense of the Letran Knights.

But while the Lions remain heavy favorites to win it this year, San Beda coach Boyet Fernandez said looking past JRU and Perpetual Help could prove dangerous to their title bid. San Beda’s Nigerian center Ola Adeogun agreed.

“Based on what I saw in the preseason, I think Jose Rizal and Perpetual Help should be strong this time,” said Adeogun.

JRU and Perpetual Help actually defeated UAAP champion La Salle in the preseason.

But the Archers went to top the Filoil Preseason Cup by beating the Lions in the finals.

The Bombers, who failed to make the Final Four last season, may have found a solution to their big man woes with the addition of 6-7 center Andul Wahab Abdul Razak of Ghana.

The Altas, meanwhile, will be led by guard Juneric Baloria and Earl Thompson.