Collegiate rivals CJ PEREZ (left) and Robert Bolick will be the center of attention when Columbian and Northport tangle in the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup today at the Ynares Sports Center. JOAQUI FLORES

Collegiate rivals Robert Bolick and CJ Perez take centerstage when unbeaten Northport collides with Columbian in the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup today at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

Action fires off at 4:30 p.m. with Bolick and Perez rekindling their storied rivalry that was last seen when San Beda University won the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball title over Lyceum of the Philippines University last year.

Also seeing action are corporate rivals San Miguel Beer and Meralco, who will gun for their second straight win in the second game at 7 p.m.

Still, all eyes will be on Bolick and Perez – the top rookies who are tipped to bring their rivalry to the professional ranks.

Bolick, said he couldn’t wait to see Perez at the other end, especially after their memorable battles in the collegiate level.

“I’m looking forward to this game especially against CJ Perez and Columbian,” said Bolick, who was picked behind Perez and Ray Parks in the Annual Rookie Draft last December.

“We’re already competing way back in the NCAA, and until now here in the PBA. I’m just excited. For sure, it will be fun game.”

Bolick holds the edge in their rivalry after powering the Red Lions to back-to-back titles against Perez and the Pirates, including a rousing victory where San Beda spoiled Lyceum’s bid of sweeping the eliminations.

But Bolick is aware that the PBA is an entirely different ballgame, reiterating that there’s still a large room for improvement if he wants to duplicate his success in the amateurs.

“It’s way different here, especially in defense. I’ve learned a lot in my first two games. And I’m just thrilled to learn anew in my third game against Columbian,” said Bolick, who is averaging 20.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists in two games for the Batang Pier.

Meanwhile, as much as this draft’s top overall pick Perez would want to avenge his stinging NCAA defeats to Bolick, he’s more focused on helping his team, emphasizing that it’s not about him and Bolick, but about Columbian and Northport.

“I’m not thinking of that rivalry,” said the reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player, who is racking up an all-around numbers of 18.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.

“That’s far from my mind. I’m just about my team and so long as we execute and defend well, we have a chance of competing.”

With Bolick at the helm, Northport seeks to remain unbeaten in three games to gain a share of lead with fellow undefeated Phoenix.