Knights start must-win drive vs Pirates today

Letran, which has been hobbling all season, is trying to edge closer to the Final Four.

The Knights, who last won a championship 10 years ago, hope to slowly gain footing in the second round and keep themselves in semifinal contention against the also-ran Lyceum Pirates today in the NCAA men’s basketball at San Juan Arena.

At even 6-6, Letran is close behind Perpetual Help and Jose Rizal, which are tied at 8-4.

“Every game will be critical from now on. It’s all a must-win game,” said Letran coach Louie Alas. “We have to put our acts together or else we are in danger of ending the season earlier.”

The Knights will face a nothing-to-lose band of Pirates (2-10) at 4 p.m.

Lyceum is just hoping to salvage something from a gloomy campaign this season.

In the second game, Mapua and Arellano clash at 6 p.m. hoping to boost their flickering Final Four hopes.

The Cardinals, at 5-7, have to win all their remaining games to stay alive. “We’re still hoping to make the Final Four,” said Mapua coach Chito Victolero.

Arellano coach Koy Banal also remained positive at 4-8 but with only six games left in the eliminations, the outlook is dim for the Chiefs.