Cardinals add firepower ahead of NCAA kickoff
Season host Mapua may be in for a tough first assignment, but it expects to come out more competitive this time with the return of three standouts in the 91st NCAA men’s basketball tournament starting on June 27.
The sweet-shooting Josan Nimes returns from injury, hoping to provide the scoring firepower the Cardinals sorely missed during their dismal run last year.
“This team will be stronger than last year, so I’m a little optimistic of our chances this season,” said Mapua coach Atoy Co.
Mark Brana suits up anew after getting sidlelined due to academic reasons, while Andretti Stevens also comes back from an injury.
The Cardinals tackle five-time champion San Beda at 1 p.m., right after the opening ceremonies at 11:30 a.m. at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Last season’s runner-up Arellano clash with Jose Rizal University in the second game at 3 p.m.
Co took as a good sign the Cardinals’ first-place finish in a preseason tournament in Cebu where holdovers CJ Isit, Exeqiel Biteng, Raphael Layug and Justin Serrano also stepped up.
The addition of African recruit Allwell Oraeme likewise strengthens the Cardinals, who are seeking to better their 4-14 win-loss record last season.
“The only problem we’re seeing is how well we could adjust as the season progresses. If we could adjust well, we have a strong chance this year,” said Co, a former King Cardinal and one of the the PBA’s Greatest Players. Jasmine W. Payo
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