Red Lions seek top spot against Bombers

AUGUST DELA CRUZ/INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

A resurgent San Beda squad shoots for the solo lead as it tangles with Jose Rizal U Thursday in the 91st NCAA basketball tournament at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The Red Lions seek their third straight victory in the 4 p.m. duel with the Heavy Bombers, who are coming off a dramatic 114-112 overtime win over the Arellano Chiefs last Thursday.

A shorthanded Mapua squad collides with San Sebastian in the first game at 2 p.m.

With an even 5-5 record, the Cardinals hope to stay within striking distance of a Final Four spot.

Coach Atoy Co’s charges are looking to carry the momentum of their 70-65 conquest of Perpetual Help in their duel with the Stags.

With a Final Four berth slowly slipping away, it is imperative for the Stags to string victories or risk early elimination from the tournament.

Stags rookie coach Rodney Santos is hoping his team has already recovered from their 67-71 loss to the Lyceum Pirates.

The Cardinals will still miss CJ Isit and Andretti Stevens due to injuries, but Josan Nimes will return today after missing the last three games.

San Beda opened the second round by routing Emilio Aguinaldo, 96-84, and St. Benilde, 89-63, last week to tie Letran on top at 9-2. Cedelf P. Tupas