NCAA Season 102 commences with star-studded ensemble and renewed rivalries

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c/o NCAA

The opening of the NCAA Season 102 will see more than just an action-packed doubleheader. 

On Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena, two rematches from last year’s men’s basketball semifinals raise the curtain starting with a grudge match between the College of St. Benilde and San Beda at 3 pm.

The Red Lions had to defeat an Allen Liwag-led Blazers last season before eventually winning the Season 101 title at the expense of Letran in the Finals.

Benilde, however, will not have the reigning MVP present for the first game as he is dealing with an undisclosed injury.

Letran and Perpetual Help play closer for opening day at 5 pm with another semis rematch.

Backed by Rookie and Freshman of the Year Titing Manalili, the Knights take on a young and gritty Altas squad led by Mark Gojo Cruz.

Before the anticipated clashes however, the league will be graced by prominent figures that helped shape the upcoming iteration of the country’s Grand Old League.

Sports patron and Mediaquest Holdings’ Chairman of the Board Manny V. Pangilinan will be one of the guest speakers and dignitaries for the opening of this year’s NCAA.

Pangilinan, also a San Beda alumnus, will be present at the awards segment of the opening to address the new broadcasting partnership between the league and TV5.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Patrick “Pato” Gregorio will also be in attendance to give the collegiate athletes a pep talk before the much-awaited sporting events.

Also expected to show up on opening day is Manila Vice Mayor Hon. Angela Lei “Chi” Atienza.

Atienza will usher Manila’s new community outreach program with the league called, “NCAA Cares.” 

The program will be built on Community Athletics, Recreation, Education and Sportsmanship (CARES) to extend the league’s values beyond the arena and into the community.