Games today:

(Filoil EcoOil Centre)

12 p.m. — Mapua vs Arellano

2:30 p.m. — Saint Benilde vs EAC

Defending champion Mapua University and Arellano University vie for the last twice-to-beat advantage in Group A when they clash in Season 101 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament today at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Game time is at 12 p.m. with the Cardinals looking to secure the playoff incentive to bolster its title retention campaign as the oldest collegiate league enters its crucial stretch.

Mapua is holding a 7-5 win-loss record, needing a win to formalize its claim of the twice-to-beat bonus. But it won’t be easy as Arellano, which is taking care of a 6-6 card, is determined to win by at least four points after suffering an 87-90 setback to the Cardinals in their first meeting last 4 October.

The Cardinals, however, will be marching to warzone oozing with confidence after coming off a grueling 77-72 overtime victory over San Sebastian College last Tuesday with team captain Clint Escamis leading the way with 18 points.

Escamis, who won the Season 99 Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, said they can’t get too comfortable despite their hot streak as they need to remain focused if they want to win back-to-back championships.