Jaguars open title defense vs Bobcats

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine School of Business Administration opens defense of its crown against Central Colleges of the Phils. as the 11th Universities and Colleges Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament unfolds tomorrow at the Ateneo Blue Eagle gym in Katipunan Ave., Quezon City.

The Jaguars, one of the six varsity teams entered in the two-month cagefest backed by Mikasa and Molten Balls, clash with the CCP Bobcats in the opening match at 10 a.m.

The Olivarez College Sea Lions take on the the De La Salle-Dasmariñas Patriots at 11:30 a.m. while the Manuel L. Quezon University Stallions battle the Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite Vanguards at 1 p.m.

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista will make the ceremonial toss during the 9 a.m. opening ceremony, while UCAA president Tisha Abundo of host PSBA will declare the season open.

Former National Youth Council chairman Bam Aquino is the guest of honor.

The CCP Pep Squad, a four- time national champion and the overall grand champion for 2009 World Cup Cheer and Dance, will perform a special number.

The Jaguars, under coach Philip Cezar, defeated the Sea Lions, 114-106, to clinch their first UCAA crown.

PSBA, however, will be without top gun Vic Manuel, who has graduated, leaving Cezar with the likes of Mark de la Cruz, BJ Erol Role and Justine Puno to get them on track.