NATIONAL UNIVERSITY puts its perfect run on the line against NCAA powerhouse San Sebastian in the FilOil-Flying V Hanes Preseason Premier Cup today.
The Bulldogs, the former varsity doormat who are proving to be one of this year’s tough contenders, go for a fifth straight win against the Stags in Group A action at 4 p.m. at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.
While the Bulldogs expect to go through the wringer, three-time UAAP champion Ateneo Blue Eagles will set out as the favorite when it also shoots for a fourth straight win against the Arellano Chiefs at 12:30 p.m.
Adamson, meanwhile, guns for a third win in four outings versus an unpredictable Letran side in the lone Group B match at 2:15 p.m.
The Bulldogs hope to prove that their surprisingly strong run stems not just from the arrival of celebrated rookie Ray Parks, but also from a much-improved cast that includes forwards Glenn Khobuntin and Denice Villamor.
But the Stags, who tote a 1-1 card, boast a more experienced lineup powered by Calvin Abueva, who posted a phenomenal 28 points, 18 rebounds and four assists in the Stags’ triumph over La Salle, 88-81, last Wednesday.
Ronald Pascual also came up big with 24 markers and Ian Sangalang had a double-double of 19 points and 13 rebounds for the Stags.
Coach Turo Valenzona, who is back at the helm after guiding the Stags to multiple championships the past decade, said though that his team has yet to fully grasp his philosophy.
“We hope that before the NCAA, we would be able to implement our system,” said Valenzona.