Tribu Sugbu vs Mantawi in NBC today

Defending champion Skygo-Tribu Sugbu and Hapee-Dewfoam Mantawi Sparkling Knights will dispute today the second spot in the South division of the Panasonic-NBC Basketball Championship elimination round at the Mandaue City Sports and Cultural Complex. Game today: (Mandaue) 6 p.m. Tribu Sugbu @ Mandaue

Tribu Sugbu, with one of its key players Neil Rañeses already in the PBA, will rely on Marvin Mercado, Lowell Briones, Rex Mangubat, Alex Cainglet, Boyet Guerrero and Doroteo Almacin. Also expected to contribute are Ronaldo Bucao, Michael Luga, Glenn Cabanes, Eduardo Pening, Bernie Ursal, Chris Ferraren, Russ Neil Paglinawan and Egay Ignacio.

Hapee, on the other hand, will lean on leading scorer and PBL star Ardy Larong, Dennis Daa, Jason Alminario, Marphyl Limbo, Aries Gloria, Marvin Tundag and veteran guard Maui Huelar with the help of Mark Moreño, Chris Carretas, Michael Sereño and Jeffrey France.

The top two teams after the elimination will drew a bye and the rest will go to the up-the-ladder knockout system. Those who come out the number 3 and 4 will then play against the top two where they will gain a twice-to-beat advantage.