The stage is set for the second game of the best-of-three finals in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, with Jose Rizal University's Heavy Bombers taking on reigning NCAA champion San Beda University Red Lions on Thursday at 5 p.m. at the Playtime Filoil Centre in San Juan.
The Heavy Bombers are looking to end a long title drought, with their last NCAA title coming in 1972 and a Fr. Martin’s Cup pre-season crown in 2015. A win would be a significant boost to their buildup for the NCAA 102nd season in September. JRU mentor Nani Epondulan expressed his team's determination to revive the school's winning culture.
Epondulan, a former NCAA MVP for JRU, has been instrumental in the team's success, and his experience will be crucial in the matchup against San Beda. The Heavy Bombers are coming off a 70-59 win over San Beda in the first game, thanks in part to the strong performance of blue-chip recruits Lawrence Mangubat and Chris Hubilla, who combined for 41 points and 18 rebounds.
San Beda, on the other hand, is looking to force a decider and honor the memory of fallen Red Lion JV Gallego, who passed away last week. The team has been rebuilding after the graduation of their championship core and will rely on players like Zed Etulle, RC Calimag, and Aldous Torculas to step up against the Heavy Bombers. Despite the challenges, the Red Lions are determined to prove their championship caliber and winning culture.
The matchup between JRU and San Beda marks the first all-NCAA showdown for the Filoil title since 2006, when JRU finished runner-up to La Salle. The game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the preseason cup, with both teams hungry for a win. San Beda is looking to bounce back from their loss in the first game and extend the series to a deciding third game.
The Heavy Bombers, meanwhile, are seeking a rare sweep against the Red Lions, which would be a significant achievement for the team. With their winning culture and determination, JRU is poised to make a strong statement in the NCAA 102nd season. The game on Thursday will be a testament to the team's hard work and dedication to reviving their championship legacy.
