MANILA, Philippines — Undefeated Colegio de San Juan de Letran aims to extend its winning run to three games, while defending champion San Beda University seeks its breakthrough victory as the NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball tournament continues on Thursday, September 24.
Following a pair of dominant victories, the Letran Knights look to maintain a perfect 3-0 record when they go head-to-head against the winless Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals in the main event at 5:00 PM.
In the 3:00 PM opening game, the back-to-back title-seeking San Beda Red Lions match up against the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates. San Beda, which suffered an opening-day loss to the College of Saint Benilde Blazers and had its subsequent game against Jose Rizal University postponed due to inclement weather, is eager to secure its first win of the season.
Letran’s strong start has been powered by key addition Denzil Walker, who stepped into a primary role following the departures of key players Deo Cuajao and Jun Roque. The former University of the Philippines player delivered immediate impact for the Muralla-based squad, scoring 21 and 25 points in their victories over University of Perpetual Help System DALTA and San Sebastian College-Recoletos, respectively.
Knights head coach Allen Ricardo will also rely on core contributors Chad Gammad and Titing Manalili to anchor the offense against a hungry EAC squad.
The Generals enter the contest determined to bounce back after dropping a close 91-87 decision to the Arellano University Chiefs on Tuesday. EAC’s push for a rebound victory will be led by Jude Bagay, Kyle Ochavo, MJ Raymundo, and Jacob Shanoda.