CEBU, Philippines - The University of the Visayas Green Lancers will try to reaffirm their dominance over the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars as their paths cross again in the 16 Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. men's basketball tournament at the Cebu Coliseum today.
Winner by 77-70 decision during their August 11 encounter, the Lancers are again favored over the 10-man Jaguars in their rematch set at 5:30 pm.
The Lancers are currently at second place in the standings with a 6-1 win-loss record, while the Jaguars have dropped three games in seven start.
Led by Liberian import Bassieru Sackor and the vaunted troika of Rey Suerte, Josue Segumpan and Alfred Codilla, the Lancers can also count on Jerome Napao, Michael Macion, Jayson Balabag, Monic Solica, Tristan Albina and Sheldon Gahi to carry their offensive load.
The Jaguars, as usual, will rely on Jaybie Mantilla, Ricky Peromingan, Nelvin Navarra, Juan Miguel Gastador, Albert Catiloc and RJ Dinolan among others.
In the juniors division, the University of Cebu Junior Webmasters gun for a share of lead when they battle the Cebu Eastern College Dragons at 2:30 p.m., right before the University of the Visayas Baby Lancers will take on the University of San Carlos Baby Warriors at 4 pm.
The Junior Webmasters tote a 5-1 win-loss card, just a full game behind the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, while the Dragons carry a 4-3 mark.
The Baby Lancers, on the other hand, sport a 3-2 record, while the Baby Warriors have won only once in six matches.
The Baby Lancers will play without Jake Rosete who is suspended for four games in the aftermath of that 'choking' incident during their disappointing 45-74 loss to the Magis Eagles last September 4.
In the first game at 1pm, the Don Bosco Technology Center Greywolves hope to improve their 5-2 slate when they take on the 4-2 USJ-R Baby Jaguars. (FREEMAN)