Lions go 'four-ward' sans two key players

MANILA, Philippines - The San Beda Red Lions are looking “four-ward” to extending their NCAA reign this year.

And although they lose two key players from their 2008 champion team, San Beda coach Frankie Lim feels they have a strong chance of stretching their dynasty this coming season.

“Sam Ekwe has graduated and Pong Escobal is now with Talk N’ Text. They are two starters we lost,” said Lim, who called the shots for the team in its last two championships.

“But despite this, I feel we’re still be competitive this year,” he added.

Lim said he’s pinning his hopes on American Sudan Daniels, who he expects will pick up the slack left by Ekwe, the 6-foot-9 Nigerian who was a former two-time MVP and one-time Finals MVP in his three years with the Lions.

Lim said the team will start practicing on Monday and will go to Indiana this summer not just to train but to also enhance team chemistry.

“I’m going to meet them on Monday, our first practice day of the year together. I feel excited to see them back. The players, particularly those who played in the PBL, are excited to play together again,” Lim said.

“We’re also planning to go to the United States this summer. It’s going to be in Indiana.”

Talented guard Borgie Hermida will also return after undergoing surgery last December to repair his torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) he sustained in the Champions League.

Lim said he sees the Jose Rizal Bombers, runners-up last season, and the new-look San Sebastian Stags as the biggest thorns in their four-peat quest.

“I saw them play in the Fr. Martin’s Cup. They have another big African guy and he looks good. I think they would have the strongest lineup this year,” he said.

“San Sebastian has improved because they have a new coach in Ato Agustin and they have new recruits. They’ll be better this year,” he added. – Joey Villar