NCRAA: Generals, Engineers face off

A new coach and a Malaysian recruit will boost the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals’ bid in their opening match with the Technological Institute of the Philippines Engineers today at the start of the 16th National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) men’s basketball tournament at the EAC Sports Complex.

Gino Manuel will debut as the Generals’ new mentor in their 10 a.m. showdown with the Engineers, taking the place of long-time coach Nomar Isla.

 “It’s going to be an interesting matchup. They have good coach in Bong Aquino,” said Manuel, who will try to bring the Generals to their second finals stint in three years.

The Generals will again be led by Cameroonian standout Romeo Fotue and 6’9” Malaysian rookie center Chee Hao.

The Olivarez College Sea Lions take on the De La Salle-Dasmariñas Patriots later at 11:30 a.m., while the Universal College of Nursing Golden Dragons battle the Philippine Merchant Marine School Mariners at 1 p.m.

The Rizal Technological University Blue Thunders clash with City Colleges of Manila at 2:30 p.m. in the league backed by officials balls Mikasa and Molten.

PAGCOR chairman Efraim Genuino will be the league’s guest of honor. He makes the ceremonial toss with NCRAA officials led by league president Tisha Abundo of the Philippine School of Business Administration and Nomar Isla of host EAC.