Eagles, Lions seek title duel 2

Manila, Philippines -  The race for glory in the Filoil Flying V Pre-season Hanes Cup reaches boiling point today as the last four teams in contention, led by defending champion Ateneo, clash for spots in the winner-take-all finals at the Filoil Flying V Arena.

The Blue Eagles battle a National U side seeking to make its first championship appearance in the premier summer loop at 3:30 p.m. while their rejuvenated rivals La Salle Green Archers try to advance against a San Beda Red Lions team that steamrolled all its previous opponents so far at 5:15 p.m.

“We haven’t really scouted NU that well since we went to the US for our training. But from little we’ve seen, they seem to be very, very fluid and they’re playing at a high level,” said Ateneo coach Norman Black, whose squad got through the semis after a 74-63 quarterfinal win over Far Eastern.

“It’s a very, very tough game for us,” said NU mentor Eric Altamirano, whose wards remained unbeaten in nine appearances in the league after a 77-68 victory over University of Santo Tomas. And these are the kind of games we really need as we prepare for the UAAP.” 

The Green Archers under new coach Gee Abanilla survived a rough quarterfinal match with San Sebastian, 84-70, a “learning experience” they hope would serve them in good stead.

“(San Sebastian) was very physical but I like the way we handled the situation, conducted ourselves. I think we can build on this,” said Abanilla.

He admitted to being the underdog against the Lions, who bulldozed past St. Benilde, 80-41. “San Beda is playing really good basketball; they’re very fluid and strong. We hope through hardwork, discipline and character we can match up with them,” he said.

SBC coach Ronnie Magsanoc said they are taking it one game at a time. “Every game is a good challenge for us to get better.”

The tournament is presented by Bostik Phils., Inc., in cooperation with Total Phils., Corp. with major sponsors Vulcaseal, Meralco, NLEX Road Warriors, TMS Ship Agencies, Inc., KIA Motors, Nature’s Spring, Bayo, BDO, Molten and Oxycan.