Mapua seeks injury recovery ahead of Letran quarterfinal
Letran holds a twice-to-beat advantage, although Mapua won their crossover encounter 69-67 in overtime.
Injuries remain a concern for Mapua University as coach Chito Victolero prepares the Cardinals for a quarterfinal meeting with Colegio de San Juan de Letran in NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball. Victolero said his squad was not fully fit but could challenge any opponent if healthy.
Among the players dealing with injuries were Cyrus Cuenco, who had a sprain, and Marcus Nitura, who had a hamstring issue. Marc Igliane was also having knee difficulties. Victolero said the team wanted to be ready for whatever circumstances arose during the playoffs.
Mapua rested Cuenco, Ivan Lazarte and Cyrus Nitura for its final group-stage outing against Lyceum of the Philippines University. The three returned several days later to help the Cardinals beat the Pirates in a play-in contest.
Letran topped its group and enters the quarterfinals with a twice-to-beat advantage. Mapua is aiming to force a decider after winning their crossover matchup 69-67 in overtime. Victolero said overcoming the Knights would demand greater effort and the proper mindset from his players.
