Games today:
(Filoil EcoOil Centre)
3 p.m. Arellano vs Lyceum

Lyceum of the Philippines University troops to battle today carrying the mindset of a cold-blooded killer.

The Pirates shoot for their seventh win against Arellano University as action in Season 98 of National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament heats up at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Action fires off at 3 p.m. with the Pirates looking for a win that will solidify their hold of the second spot behind idle College of Saint Benilde, which totes a 7-1 win-loss card.

The Pirates are at the second spot with 6-2, just a hairline away from Jose Rizal University (5-2) and San Beda University (5-3).

Lyceum coach Gilbert Malabanan stressed that they will not take the Chiefs lightly, knowing that they can give them a good fight in the race for Final Four slots.

"All the teams here are strong and we're going to treat Arellano as contenders. We're going to treat them as Final Four contenders. We're going to play our way," Malabanan said.

"As you can see, my players are enjoying the game. I want that for the team because if you enjoy playing, you'll be able to show your game better. There won't be any pressure for them when you play."

The Pirates are coming off an 82-79 win over San Sebastian and are determined to keep their winning ways intact.

It was JM Bravo who provided premium points, making seven of his 14 points in overtime to make up for their sorry 63-57 defeat to JRU last Friday.

After a dismal showing in Season 97, Lyceum is primed to barge into the Final Four this time with old reliables such as Enoch Valdez, Mac Guadaña and John Barba itching to light up their scoreboard.