Games today (Filoil Flying V Centre, San Juan)
12 noon – San Sebastian vs. Perpetual
2 p.m. – St. Benilde vs Mapua
4 p.m. – Jose Rizal vs AU
MANILA, Philippines — Allyn Bulanadi will be a marked man when San Sebastian goes for a sixth straight win at the expense of sinking Perpetual Help today in the 95th NCAA basketball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.
If successful, the Stags will gain a share of second spot with Lyceum of the Philippines University.
Bulanadi erupted for a career-high 32 points, including five booming triples in an 83-67 bashing of St. Benilde last Friday that gave the Stags their seventh win against three defeats for solo third place.
A win over the Altas, who are out to improve on their 3-7 card, in their 12-noon showdown will send coach Egay Macaraya’s charges in a tie with the Pirates (8-3) while inching closer to the San Beda Lions, who remain untouchable at the helm with a pristine 11-0 record.
Bulanadi, who is playing his final season, knows defense will focus on him after his Herculean effort.
“I’m expecting it and I’m ready for whatever they throw at us,” said Bulanadi.
St. Benilde, meanwhile, hopes to regain its old place inside the magic four when it meets Mapua at 2 p.m.
After zooming to a 4-0 start, the Blazers dropped four of their next six games to slip to a 6-4 slate. A win over the Cardinals will give them a share of No. 4 with the Knights (7-4).
But they will have their hands full against Mapua, which has won four of its last five games, including a stunning 105-101 double overtime win over Letran Friday.
“We feel its not yet too late but we have to work harder to have a chance,” said Mapua mentor Randy Alcantara.
Jose Rizal (4-7) and Arellano (2-9) tangle at 4 p.m. in the other seniors’ game of the day.