San Beda University has a golden opportunity to sweep rival Letran College and clinch the Season 101 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball crown with or without prized rookie Janti Miller.
When action begins at 2 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Red Lions hope to ride the momentum they got in their 89-70 win over the Knights last Wednesday in Game 1 and end their best-of-three championship series.
With emotions expected to rise in this championship series, San Beda head coach Yuri Escueta knows they have to remain cool, calm and collected.
“We should’ve been better in terms of handling our emotions and being more composed so we don’t commit too many turnovers,” said Escueta, who is on the verge of winning his second NCAA title with the Lions.
“We should not take the next game lightly,” he said. “I’m sure Letran’s going to give it their all.”
San Beda was hanging on to a 46-43 lead at halftime in Game 1 and it took a second half surge for the Mendiola-based squad to put the game to rest.
Meanwhile, Knights head coach Allen Ricardo apologized to the fans and students as they vow to even the series.
“There were doubts but it happens. Sometimes, you have to take risks because what if everything turns out alright?” Ricardo said.
“I would like to apologize because there are a lot of Letran fans who came out to support us. We will move on from this.”
At 8 a.m., College of Saint Benilde and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta will lock horns for the bronze medal match.
The Blazers won’t have the services of big man Allen Liwag, who is currently playing for Gilas Pilipinas in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok.
Still, eyes will be on San Beda and Letran, two of the most successful programs in the NCAA.
The last time the Lions defeated the Knights in the championship match was back in 2013.
Bryan Sajonia is expected to come up with bigger plays today for San Beda after scoring 17 points in the series opener.
As for rookie Jonathan Manalili, he is aiming to ramp up his numbers despite getting 17 points and five assists for the Knights.
Before Game 2 goes underway, an awarding ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. at the Big Dome.
Manalili and Miller are strong contenders for not only Rookie of the Year but also for the Mythical Team selection and Most Valuable Player honors.