Knights seek to rebound vs Chiefs

MANILA, Philippines - Letran tries to get back on track as it takes on winless Arellano U today while Emilio Aguinaldo College and Lyceum clash in a duel of struggling teams in the 88th NCAA basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.

The Knights, one of the pre-tournament favorites, took a 66-69 beating from the vastly improved Perpetual Help Altas last June 30 after kicking off their campaign with a shock 80-74 win over the fancied San Sebastian Stags.

But the Muralla-based cagers are tipped to get past the Chiefs, winless in three starts, in their 4 p.m. encounter.

“It’s an important game for us, it will boost our confidence,” said Letran coach Louie Alas.

He, however, stressed the need for his wards to sustain their pace and keep their poise at endgame after losing steam against the Altas in a game they controlled majority of the way.

“Perpetual has improved a lot and they have shown the ability to beat anyone if you allow them to. In our case, we have no one else to blame but us,” said Alas.

He also expects the Chiefs to come out strong after three straight setbacks.

“It’s always tough playing Letran but anything is possible if you give it your best and play hard,” said Arellano U mentor Koy Banal.

Meanwhile, the Generals likewise seek to rebound from a recent defeat as it goes for their second win in three starts against Lyceum, tied with Arellano in the bottom of the 10-team field.

The Generals fell to the streaking Jose Rizal Bombers, 79-90, last Thursday but are slightly favored over the Pirates in their 6 p.m. duel.