For Letran College, its clash with Lyceum of the Philippines University in the stepladder phase of Season 95 National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament is a chance to win the title.

But for skipper Jerrick Balanza, it is the chance to gain payback.

Balanza admitted that he is taking their crucial game against Lyceum personally after the Pirates tormented them in a dramatic Final Four showdown last year.

The sweet-shooting forward is the main reason why the Knights made it all the way to the post-season.

Against San Sebastian College in the first round of the stepladder late Tuesday at the Cuneta Astrodome, Balanza fired 15 points, six rebounds and four assists as the Knights survived the 36-point explosion of RK Ilagan to eke out a thrilling 85-80 win.

And now that a rematch with the Pirates is under way, Balanza couldn’t wait to score his much-awaited payback.

“This is my chance to score a payback,” said Balanza, who is a story of success after battling brain tumor to blossom into one of the best players in collegiate basketball.

“A lot of good opportunities come my way, including this. So those who owe me like San Sebastian and Letran, this is my chance to gain payback. I’m very fortunate that I’m still here to make it happen.”

Balanza has an ax to grind against the Pirates.

In fact, it was Lyceum that sent them home via a lopsided 109-85 victory in the Final Four last year. Then, in their elimination round battles this year, the Pirates re-asserted their mastery as they scored an 87-82 win in the first round followed by a 97-90 triumph in the second round.

The Knights battle the Pirates this Friday also at the same Pasay venue.

Should Lyceum prevail, it will book a finals rematch with unbeaten San Beda University.