Knights test Bombers; Cardinals clash with Pirates

MANILA, Philippines — Looking to build on their breakthrough wins last week, Letran and Jose Rizal University square off Monday even as Mapua seeks a first victory in the 90th NCAA basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Far from the lethal form they showed last season, the Knights have struggled in their first two games before finally getting over the hump at the expense of Mapua.

But they will have their hands full against the Heavy Bombers in the 2 p.m. duel of teams with similar 1-2 records.

Foiled in their first three games, the Cardinals hope to finally break through against the dangerous Lyceum Pirates in the 4 p.m. game.

The Pirates are coming off a 68-84 loss to the San Beda Red Lions last Wednesday. But coach Bonnie Tan can draw positives from the play of Dexter Zamora, who has been consistent in delivering the points for the Pirates.

Shane Ko and Guy Mbida are also expected to step up for the Pirates whose bid absorbed a blow following the sudden departure of Cameroonian Aziz Mbomiko.

After finishing last season with a woeful 2-16 record, the Cardinals seemed like they’re headed for more misery this season. Coach Atoy Co’s wards have lost their first three games by a combined margin of 80 points.

The Cardinals are counting on Joseph Eriobu, Jesse Saitanan and Jeson Cantos to turn their fortunes around after a sorry start.

The veteran duo of Kevin Racal and Mark Cruz, who combined for 47 points in the win over Mapua, remain the focal point of the Knights’ offense.