TIP eyes repeat vs UB

MANILA, Philippines – Technological Institute of the Philippines tries to firm up its hold of the second spot as it goes for a repeat over University of Batangas while Olivarez College seeks revenge against Bulacan State University in the Universities and Colleges Basketball League at the Olivarez College Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque today.

The TIP Engineers blasted the UB Brahmans, 69-54, in their first meeting, making them the heavy favorites in their 2 p.m. showdown with the winless team from Batangas.

A win will boost TIP’s hold of the No. 2 spot after finishing the first round elims with a 4-2 record while the Brahmans are raring to nail their first win after dropping their first six games.

Out to lead the Engineers of coach Potit de Vera are Harley Diego and John Enrique while the Brahmans will be led by Joefried Arboleda, import Raoul Elias Yemeli and Kent Catorno.

But focus will be on the 12 noon shootout between Olivarez and Bulacan State University with the latter raring to re-assert their mastery over the Sea Lions, whom they beat, 96-91, in the first round.

The Gold Gears also hope to ride the momentum of their 79-73 win over Diliman College. The Sea Lions, in contrast, are still smarting from a 61-76 loss to the league-leading Centro Escolar University.

The CEU Scorpions notched their seventh straight win with an 81-65 demolition of the Colegio De San Lorenzo Griffins last Saturday.