Red Lions Seek Fourth Title

Going for a fourth straight crown will be a challenge for the San Beda Red Lions in the 89th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.

Coach Boyet Fernandez said this after the Red Lions finished their pre-season sorties with a third-place finish in the elimination round of the recent 19th Fr. Martin Summer Cup and yet another third-place overall feat in a pre-season cagefest.

“Our primary focus right now is the semifinals. Many teams like Arellano University have gotten stronger,” said Fernandez, who replaced Ronnie Magsanoc only last December.

Fernandez said playing, winning and losing against teams in both the University Athletic Association of the Philippines and the NCAA has given the team a chance to work on their cohesion and work together as a team.

With a week left before the opening on June 22, Fernandez observed the improvements the Letran Knights underwent after Caloy Garcia took over and how the Arellano University Chiefs are managing to fare during closely fought matches.

He also took note of the College of St. Benilde Blazers’ transformation under new coach Gabby Velasco and the San Sebastian Stags, who will have Topex Robinson back as coach.

The Red Lions will ride on the efforts of Baser Amer, Rome de la Rosa  and Cameroonian cager Olaide Adeogun, with Amer averaging 12.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, while De la Rosa norms 11.9 points and Adeogun able to deliver 11.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

Without big guys Anjo Caram and Jake Pascual, second unit players Arthur de la Cruz is stepping up with ex-Red Cub Francis Abarcar and Ryusei Koga.

source: Manila Standard