Red Lions open NCAA season with a roar

MANILA, Philippines - No Sam Ekwe. No problem.

American Sudan Daniel made an impressive debut as San Beda whitewashed a listless Mapua side, 85-52, yesterday to launch its bid for a fourth straight title in the 85th NCAA basketball tournament at the packed Big Dome.

The high-leaping 6’8” Daniel effortlessly compiled 13 points, nine rebounds, five blocks and no turnovers in just 22 minutes of play enough to take out the Lions’ worries if he can fulfill the void left by Ekwe, who finished his eligibility years along with Pong Escobal and Ogie Menor.

“He’s more than filled up that hole, he served the purpose,” said San Beda coach Frankie Lim of Daniel, formerly from Compton Dominguez or the same high school this year’s 2009 NBA rookie top pick Blake Griffin of the Clippers and the Hornets’ Tyson Chandler attended.

Although Daniel got help from Bam Bam Gamalinda, Jake Pascual, Garvo Lanete and rookie Anjo Caram, who chipped in 14, 11, 11 and 10 points, respectively, the rookies’ towering presence seemed enough.

“I told him (Daniel) I don’t need him to show the ‘wow things’ because I only want him to play straight basketball. That’s what he did, he played well,” said Lim, still mourning the recent death of his father.

It was also victory that sent warning signals to the rest of the league.

“It’s always a good feeling winning opening games,” said Lim, whose team always won its opening game by more than 20 points since taking over two seasons back.

“This also serves as a statement to the other teams that we’re back and we’re going for a four-peat,” he added.

So dominant was San Beda that Mapua, now coached by Chito Victolero and Randy Alcantara in place of Leo Isaac, could only manage 20 of the 71 shots the Cardinals attempted while the Lions made 34 of the 65 shots they took.

Mark Acosta and Paul Sinco each scored 10 points for the Cardinals, who appeared in disarray in the absence of last year’s veterans 2007 MVP Kelvin dela Pena, Neil Pascual and Ian Mazo.

Earlier, league president Fr. Mat de Jesus officially declared the Season 85 open in elaborate rites highlighted by an unforgettable production number considered by many as one of the best openers, if not the best, in league history.

“It was a fitting kickoff and a colorful preview of what is certain to be the biggest, brightest and most valuable amateur sports league season of all time,” said de Jesus.

In the second game, Jose Rizal survived a furious rally by Letran as it eked out a 69-66 victory to likewise set its title aspirations in motion.

John Wilson led the Bombers, who lost in the deciding Game Three to the Lions last year, with 21 points while James Sena and Marvin Hayes added 18 and 14 points.

In the nightcap, San Sebastian pummeled Perpetual Help, 76-64, to start its season with a bang.

The opening number, a dazzling aerial show combined with a combination of colorful dance numbers by cheerleaders of all participating schools.

“It was gorgeous,” said guest speaker United States Ambassador Kristie Kenney.