CEBU, Philippines — Fresh from grabbing their first crown of the year, the University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers’ might as Cebu’s best collegiate ballclub will be put to a major test as they lock horns with the La Salle Green Archers in an exciting battle of champions in the 2nd Gov. Ann K. Hofer Open Invitational Basketball Tournament today (Thursday, February 15) at the Capitol Sports Complex in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Game time is set at 9 p.m., right after the National University (NU) Bulldogs clash with Titay Valenzuela in the 7 p.m. opener.
The Lancers, who topped the Bulacao Invitational Tournament in Cebu City just last week, are the two-time defending champions in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI).
Coach Gary Cortes will parade the same UV lineup that reigned supreme in last year’s CESAFI Season 23 led by season MVP Kent Ivo Salarda, star guards AJ Sacayan and Jimpaul Amistoso, Raul Gentallan, and Ivan Clark Alsola.
They will be reinforced by Bassieru Sackor, Ted Saga, and 2022 CESAFI MVP Jiesel Tarrosa.
The Lancers though are expected to face a tall order against the Green Archers, the reigning UAAP titleholder led by the season and Finals MVP Kevin Quiambao.
After La Salle, the Lancers will go up against the NU Bulldogs and Alicia KSB Glass before wrapping up their elimination round campaign in the five-day tournament that offers P700,000 to the champion against Titay Valenzuela on Saturday, February 17.