After more than two months, the elimination round of the NCAA Season 98 men's basketball tournament comes to a close on Wednesday, but not without repercussions for the upcoming Final Four matches.
Defending champions Colegio de San Juan de Letran will face Jose Rizal University at 3 p.m. in a match which would determine their opponent in the semi finals. The Heavy Bombers, meanwhile, will try to end the season on a positive note after a campaign marred by health protocols and suspensions from the John Amores incident.
Should Letran win against JRU, the Knights will face rivals San Beda University in the Final Four. However, if the Knights fail to do so, they will then be paired with the gutsy Lyceum of the Philippines University squad.
JRU, on the other hand, will try to improve their endgame standings to 7-11 before moving forward to Season 99.
Meanwhile, both Mapua University and San Sebastian College-Recoletos will try to end their season on a positive note.
Prior to Mapua's resurgence in the second round, the Cardinals ended the first round with only one win against eight losses. On top of this, the Intramuros-based squad dealt with injuries, the removal of Gab Gamboa, and the forfeiture of their opening day win. San Sebastian, on the other hand, faced a lot of rescheduled games due to health protocols and inclement weather. A win would give either team something to cherish as they end their rocky campaign this season.
The games will also see Arvin Gamboa, JJ Pido, and Jasper Selenga play their last games for the Cardinals, and Ichie Altamirano and Ammar Cosari don the San Sebastian colors for one last time.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
