The Adamson Falcons will be in their guard when they clash with the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers at 2 p.m. today at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Falcons are on top of the standings after posting their second straight win over the University of the East Warriors, 90-76, last Sunday in the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
Coach Franz Pumaren urged members of the team not to be complacent this early in their campaign, now that they ahead in the solo lead.
“It’s a bonus for us that this early, we’re in this position. We just have to seize the moment, enjoy the moment and not to feel that way, that we are unbeatable,” said Pumaren.
The San Marcelino-based cagers are enjoying their best start in more than 15 years by being ahead of the pack.
Jerrick Ahanmisi is among the team’s top performers, following a three-game average of 20 points and four rebounds, along with Sean Manganti with 15.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, an assist and 1.5 steals.
Papi Sarr, who made a season-high 21 rebounds against the Warriors, norms 11.5 points and 15 rebounds.
On the other hand, UST coach Aldin Ayo has two good scorers in Henri Subido and rookie CJ Cansino.
Subido and Cansino normed 16.5 points and 13.5 points after two games.
Last Sunday, Sean Manganti came up with a season-high performance when he provided 27 points in their game with the Warriors.
After making only four points in their 74-70 upset of the defending champion Ateneo Blue Eagles, the 6’5” Manganti made most his baskets in the third period where he unloaded 14 points.
The Tigers now have a 1-1 slate after they earned their first win under Ayo with their 76-74 beating of Far Eastern University last week.
The National University Bulldogs, reeling from a 76-80 loss to La Salle, will try to bounce back against the defending champion Ateneo Blue Eagles.