NCAA: Stags, Red Lions face dangerous rivals

MANIL, Philippines—A well-rested San Sebastian squad stakes its unblemished record against dangerous Letran in one of the two crucial games Friday in the 87th NCAA basketball tournament at the FilOil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

A victory over the Knights in the 4 p.m. game will not only assure the Stags of a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four, but put them two wins away from pulling off an 18-game elimination round sweep.

The Stags will be playing their first NCAA game in two weeks, although coach Topex Robinson’s wards actually went to Cebu to play in a series of goodwill games in a bid to keep their sharp form.

San Beda, which achieved the historic sweep on its way to the title last season, faces Lyceum at 2 p.m.

The Lions, with a 13-2 card, can further tighten their grip on second spot with a victory over the Pirates, who are out to make a late push for the remaining Final Four berth.

“We haven’t been playing at the level we expect to be,” said San Beda coach Frankie Lim. “It’s probably because of the long breaks. We’re just trying to build up again now.”

With a 6-9 record, the Pirates are hoping to sweep their last three games to assure themselves of at least a playoff for the last postseason spot.

But the task of advancing will be a tough one for the Pirates, who will still deal with the formidable Stags next week.

Jose Rizal U holds the inside track for the last Final Four berth with a 7-9 record, while Mapua is also in contention with a 7-10 slate. St. Benilde totes a 5-10 card.

The Lions are coming off an 84-75 conquest of the Blazers last Wednesday.