Sea Lions open NCRAA title defense

MANILA, Philippines - The Olivarez College Sea Lions begin their quest for a second straight title when the 18th season of the National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) starts today with the men’s basketball games at the Olivarez College Sports Complex gymnasium in Sucat, Parañaque.

Playing with a nearly intact lineup, the Sea Lions begin their campaign against this year’s host school Philippine Merchant Marine School at 10 a.m. – one of four games slated on opening day of this cagefest supported by Mikasa and Molten Balls.

Nine varsity squads are vying the top honors in the tournament, which will introduce a new format this season.

“We are happy to host the 18th season. I am looking forward to a memorable and fantastic series this year,” said PMMS vice president for operations and marketing Crispulo Onrubia.

Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite clashes with Technological Institute of the Philippines at 11:30 a.m., while Colegio de Sta. Monica meets De La Salle University-Dasmarinas at 1 p.m., and PATTS College of Aeronautics takes on Philippine School of Business Administration at 2:30 p.m.

Rizal Technological University took a bye.

The top six teams in the first round will advance to the second round, which will pick the top four squads for the semifinals.

The Sea Lions, coached by Michael Saguiguit, will miss only one player who helped them win their first-ever crown in 17 years at the expense of Rizal Technological University Blue Blue Thunder last season.

Nigerian cager Ben Bikonte has graduated, but even without him, coach Saguiguit can still count on veterans John Corneh, Archie Reyes, Erwin Encela and Philip de la Cruz to lead the Sea Lions to another title run.

The PMMS Mariners will again be mentored by Aldrin Morante, who will try to steer the team to their best-ever finish.