San Beda, Letran eye NCAA Finals duel

Letran’s Mark Cruz (right) escapes the defense of San Beda’s Jayvee Mocon. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Finally at full strength, defending champion and top seed San Beda looks as formidable as ever as the NCAA Final Four unfolds Tuesday at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

With injuries and suspensions out of the way, the Red Lions shoot for a 10th straight finals appearance when they tangle with the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers at 4 p.m.

“I’m very happy because I have 15 players ready to play,” said San Beda coach Jamike Jarin. “For the entire elimination I never had that luxury. But coming into the final four, we have a 15-man lineup, so I’m satisfied.”

No strangers to adversity in Season 91, the Bombers face their toughest test yet, needing to beat the reigning titlists twice to make the finals for the first time since 2008.

“When JRU started the season, coach Vergel [Meneses] promised the entire community that they’re going to make the final four and they’re here. They’re well-coached, it’s going to be tough,” said Jarin, who will pin his hopes on  Ola Adeogun, Art dela Cruz and Baser Amer.

Letran also seeks a finals seat when it clashes with third seed Mapua at 2 p.m.

Like the Lions, the Knights will also be armed with a twice-to-beat edge against the Cardinals, who warmed themselves up for the duel with an 81-76 win over JRU in their battle for the third seeding.

Mapua guard CJ Isit likes his team’s chances against the Knights, whom they defeated, 82-77, last Sept. 15, avenging their 77-80 loss in the first round.

The Cardinals also boast MVP candidate Allwell Oraeme, who has averaged a double-double this season, as they try to counter the explosive Letran trio of Rey Nambatac, Mark Cruz and Kevin Racal.