San Beda University will do whatever it takes to extend the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 men’s basketball finals.
The Red Lions are on the verge of elimination after a 63-68 loss to Mapua University last Wednesday in Game 1 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
San Beda lost to the Cardinals in 1991 and 32 years later, both sides face each other again with Game 2 set today at 2 p.m.
For Lions guard Jacob Cortez, he has to adjust after being limited to 12 points, all of it scored in the second half.
“I wasn’t playing my regular game and in Game, 2, I would be more prepared mentally. I know what to do more and my coaches helped me with that,” Cortez said after their training session in the school gym last Friday.
“Just to take whatever physicality they gave to me. I have to give it all.”
For Yukien Andarada, the key will be physicality.
“Coach Yuri (Escueta) told us to improve our one-on-one defense and we have to be physical. We can’t let ourselves get bullied by them,” Andrada said.
“We have to play more intensely in the court. I think we can adjust to it,” he added.
The last time San Beda lifted the crown was in 2018 when Robert Bolick, Calvin Oftana, AC Soberano and Clint Doliguez ran the show.
As for Filipino-Canadian rookie Jomel Puno, the team will be drawing their strength from their six-game winning streak before the finals.
“We’ve been in this situation before. I think we’re ready, especially me. We’re confident we can come back,” Puno said.
“I’m coming in with a whole new mindset. I’ll be playing with a lot more physical and grab more rebounds. I’m just excited because it’s all or nothing.”
