Knights, Chiefs clash in vital setto

MANILA, Philippines - Letran and Arellano collide today in a crucial showdown of teams chasing the last Final Four berth as action in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament heats up at The Arena in San Juan City.

Tied at fourth with 7-4 (win-loss) slates, the Chiefs hope to duplicate their stunning 81-72 victory over the Knights in the first round last July 1 and boost their bid for the fourth and last semis berth.

San Sebastian (11-0), San Beda (10-1) and Jose Rizal U (9-2) have virtually clinched the first three slots in the Final Four.

But the Knights are expected to get back at the Chiefs in their 4 p.m. encounter.

“We know we defeated them (Letran) in the first round but we have to be ready on how they will adjust,” said Arellano U coach Junjie Ablan.

Perpetual Help and Emilio Aguinaldo, currently at the bottom of the standings with 3-8 and 2-9 cards, respectively, tangle at 2 p.m.

Giorgio Ciriacruz and Adrian Celada, who combined for 31 points in the first round, are tipped to lead the Chiefs against the Knights.

“They were more aggressive than us when we first faced them, so we need to put more effort and be more aggressive on both ends if we want to have a chance at beating them,” said Letran mentor Louie Alas.

Against the Chiefs in the first round, Rey Guevarra scored 17 points while Jaypee Belencion added 15 points but skipper RJ Jazul was held to just eight points.

But Jazul has regained his confidence and shooting touch, firing 21 points and dishing off a season-high 13 assists as the Knights demolished the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals, 92-66, recently.