Knights see rough sailing in title bid

If the opening day results of the NCAA cage wars are to be gauged, the Letran Knights are indeed in for a rough ride in their back-to-back title run.

After watching two favored squads fall against lesser-fancied rivals and the other one escaping an upset ax, the Knights barely survived the PCU Dolphins’ gallant stand for an 84-76 victory late Saturday in the 80th NCAA men’s basketball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum.

"I keep saying before the season that it’s going to be a strong field so I keep reminding the boys to stay focused and never underestimate our opponents," said Letran coach Louie Alas.

Ronjay Enrile came to Letran’s rescue again by erupting for 16 points while Boyet Bautista, Mark Andaya and rookie John Paul Alcaraz tossed in 11 points each to secure that hard-earned victory.

The Dolphins, now coached by Loreto Tolentino, were spearheaded by the troika of Ian Garrido, Jason Castro and Robert Sanz, who combined for 42 points but just could not get the job done in the stretch.

The Knights, who dethroned the San Sebastian Stags in a thrilling finale last year, are hoping their experience in the PBL Unity Cup, where they finished third, will carry them through the championship. — Joey Villar