NCAA set to hold Volleyball finals at Rizal Memorial

A fierce championship showdown takes center stage once more as the Benilde Lady Blazers and the Letran Lady Knights face off in Game 1 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 101 Volleyball Tournament Finals this Sunday,  April 5, at 12 p.m., straight from the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Fans can catch the thrilling action live on GTV and Heart of Asia, with a simulcast available on the official social media pages of GMA Sports and NCAA Philippines.

The defending champions and five-peat seeking CSB Lady Blazers locked in their Finals spot earlier on March 25, sweeping the Perpetual Lady Altas, 25–18, 26–24, 25–21, in their semifinal series. Anchoring the dominant run were ace volleybelles Zam Nolasco, Chenae Basarte, and Cam Bartolome.

The Letran Lady Knights, on the other hand, return to the Finals after overpowering the San Beda Red Lady Spikers in a four-set semifinals victory (25–18, 25–19, 23–25, 25–21) last March 28. Leading the charge were top players Judiel Nitura, Vanessa Sarie, and Lara Mae Silva. 

The best-of-three Finals series schedule is as follows: April 5 (Game 1), 12 p.m. on GTV and HOA; April 8 (Game 2), 2:30 p.m. on GTV and HOA; and April 10 (Game 3, if necessary), 3 p.m. on HOA. 

Meanwhile, the NCAA Season 101 Men’s Volleyball Tournament continues to heat up as the Mapúa Cardinals and The Benilde Blazing Spikers battle for the championship in their own best-of-three series. Don’t miss the action on April 5 (Game 1), 3 p.m. on HOA; April 8 (Game 2), 11 a.m. on HOA; and April 10 (Game 3, if necessary), 12 p.m. on HOA. 

Catch the livestream on the NCAA Philippines website (www.gmanetwork.com/ncaa), NCAA Philippines Facebook page and YouTube channel, and GMA Sports' social media accounts. Global Pinoys can catch all the action via the international channel GMA News TV. 

For more updates on NCAA, visit its official website www.ncaa.com.ph.

Seventh heaven for Arellano in NCAA Cheerleading

c/o NCAA

Arellano extended its reign in NCAA cheerleading to a seventh straight season on Thursday, with their triumph in the NCAA Season 101 Cheerleading Competition at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Chiefsquad topped the tournament, which is presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, with their aggregate score of 231 points. 

Head coach Lucky San Juan shared after their victory, "Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga bata ko, kung ‘di dahil sa kanila, ‘di magiging successful ‘tong seventh straight."

He adds, "Ito ‘yong challenge, kahit sabihin nating nanalo [ngayon], mahirap pa din para sa next year."

San Juan notes that the team remained unfazed with the additional pressure to defending their title, "Ang laki ng tiwala ko sa kanila. Sobra nilang inaral at nireview ‘yang mga ‘yan," he says.

The Chiefsquad will take home PhP 100k with this triumph, as they extend their reign since the NCAA's 92nd season back in 2017.

Completing the podium spots are the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta and Colegio de San Juan de Letran, in a repeat from last season.

The Perpsquad tallied 221 points to earn second place and nets PhP 75k, while the Letran Cheering Squad nipped Emilio Aguinaldo College for third with their total of 199.5 points and the PhP 50k cash prize.

NCAA Season 101 Cheerleading Competition set for Thursday

NCAA Cheerleading

The cheering squads of the NCAA are set to take over the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, with the league hosting its Cheerleading Competition at 230pm.

GMA Network is set to showcase these outstanding athletes  LIVE on GTV.

Feel the excitement and chill as the NCAA’s premier cheerleading squads showcase their gravity-defying stunts, thrilling routines, and electrifying performances. Competing this season are the Benilde Blazers Pep Squad of De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde; the Altas Perpsquad of University of Perpetual Help System-Dalta; the Mapua Cheerping Cardinals of Mapúa University; the Letran Cheering Squad of Colegio de San Juan de Letran; the LPU Pirates Pep Squad of Lyceum of the Philippines University; the Golden Stags Cheerleading Squad of San Sebastian College-Recoletos; the JRU Pep Squad of José Rizal University; the AU Chiefsquad of Arellano University; the EAC Generals Pep Squad of Emilio Aguinaldo College; and the San Beda Red Army of San Beda University.

Arellano is seeking to extend their stranglehold in this competition for a seventh straight season, while Perpetual and Letran, who finished on the podium last year as second and third placers, respectively, will once again make an attempt to dethrone the defending champions.

PhP 100k beckons for the champion, while the remain podium finishers will receive PhP 75k and PhP 50k, respectively.

Martin Javier and Lexi Gonzales will host the event, with Glycel Galpo providing the backstage reporting.

Providing additional entertainment is Arabelle dela Cruz, The Clash alumna and Veiled Cup 2026 Grand Champion.

Catch the livestream on the NCAA Philippines website (www.gmanetwork.com/ncaa), NCAA Philippines Facebook page and YouTube channel, and GMA Sports' social media accounts. Global Pinoys can catch all the action via the international channel GMA News TV.

Tickets for the competition can now be purchased via SM Tickets.

For more updates on NCAA, visit its official website www.ncaa.com.ph. Follow @ncaaphilippines, @gmasynergy, and @gmasportsph on social media.

GMA set to showcase NCAA Season 101 volleyball

Building Greatness

Fresh from the completion of the Juniors and Seniors Basketball portion of the 101st season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, GMA is set to showcase the clash for supremacy on the taraflex with the start of the volleyball tournament this Friday, January 23, at the San Andres Sports Complex.

The league is set to hold the Opening Ceremony at 10am, followed by a quadruple-header.

Defending champions College of Saint Benilde is set to kick off their quest for a fifth straight crown in the women's division in a high noon showdown against Mapua, to be followed by the duel between potential title challengers Colegio de San Juan de Letran and Arellano at 230pm.

The men then take over, with the CSB facing Mapua at 5pm and the capping off the festivities with the finals rematch between Letran and Arellano at 730pm.

This season's Volleyball Chairman Fr. Victor C. Calvo, Jr. shares, "For NCAA Season 101 Volleyball, we have some modifications like the [tournament format where there will be two groupings], so that the tournament will be more exciting and unpredictable. The Philippines is a volleyball country, so we are trying very hard to make this season, as much as possible, competitive, and for the enjoyment of the fans."

Like their basketball counterparts, the league has split the teams into two groups of five, with Group A featuring CSB, Mapua, San Sebastian, Jose Rizal University, and University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, and Group B comprising of Letran, Arellano, Lyceum, San Beda, and Emilio Aguinaldo College. The same format, including the play-in, will be adopted as well for this tournament.

Volleyball matches will be televised LIVE every Wednesday at 11am on GTV, and 230pm on both GTV and Heart of Asia. Fridays will be at 12nn and 230pm on HOA, while Sundays at the same time on both GTV and HOA. Games will also be streamed the league's official social media platforms, as well as on GMA Sports. Fans abroad will be able to watch through GMA News TV.

Regional TV Department and Concurrent Head, Central Office Operations and Synergy Officer-in-Charge Marivic Araneta says, "As the proud home of the NCAA, GMA Network, thru GMA Synergy, is committed to providing the best viewing experience for all the NCAA supporters and Kapuso sports enthusiasts. With the competitive spirit of all participating NCAA volleyball teams, this season’s... Volleyball Tournament is definitely something to look forward to. We invite everyone to show their support and witness the incomparable determination and world-class skills of all student athletes."

NCAA Men's Basketball Finals set for GTV broadcast

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is poised for an adrenaline-pumping season finale as San Beda University and Colegio de San Juan de Letran collide for the championship in the NCAA Season 101 Men’s Basketball Finals — their first since Season 95. Catch the much-anticipated face-off live on GTV this Wednesday, December 10 at 2 p.m., straight from the Araneta Coliseum. 

The San Beda Red Lions, holding the longest Final Four streak in the NCAA and marking their 18th straight playoff appearance in Season 101, are looking to reclaim the title this season. Their journey has been marked by dominant performances, fueled by Yukien Andrada, Janti Miller, and  Bryan Sajonia, under the strategic guidance of Coach Yuri Escueta.

Also a mainstay in championship contention with 20 NCAA titles to their name, the Letran Knights are more than ready to hoist the trophy once again.  Headed by Coach Allen Ricardo, and led by the fearless play of Titing Manalili, Kevin Santos, and Jimboy Estrada, the Knights are not wasting any opportunity to prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the league.

"The San Beda Red Lions and Letran Knights – widely regarded as league powerhouses – are back in the championship, and this is definitely a must watch showdown for all the NCAA fans. This rivalry transcends basketball; it's a battle for pride and history. We invite all students, alumni, and sports enthusiasts to tune in and witness this epic chapter unfold in the NCAA's legacy," expressed NCAA Season 101 Management Committee Chairman Melchor Divina.

"GMA Network, the league's official broadcast partner, is committed to delivering a top-tier viewing experience for the much-awaited championship series in the NCAA Season 101 Basketball Tournament. GMA Synergy is proud to bring the intensity of the San Beda vs. Letran championship series to millions of Filipinos live on GTV as this match-up is exactly what fans have been waiting for,” said Officer-in-Charge, Regional TV Department and Concurrent Head, Central Office Operations and Synergy Marivic Araneta.

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Finals will be anchored by Synergy Sports host Martin Javier. Joining him is veteran professional basketball player Beau Belga. 

Meanwhile, witness the action in the NCAA Season 101 Juniors Finals as the Arellano Braves and the Letran Squires vie for the championship trophy on December 10 (Game 1), December 13 (Game 2), and December 16 (Game 3, if necessary), airing live on Heart of Asia at 11 a.m.

Don’t miss the action on the NCAA Season 101 Men’s Basketball Finals airing live on GTV at 2 p.m. – Game 1 on December 10, Game 2 on December 13, and Game 3 on December 16 (if necessary).

Catch the livestream on the NCAA Philippines website (www.gmanetwork.com/ncaa), NCAA Philippines Facebook page and YouTube channel, and GMA Sports' social media accounts. Global Pinoys can catch all the action via the international channel GMA News TV. 

Visit NCAA Philippines’ official website www.ncaa.com.ph and follow @ncaaphilippines, @gmasynergy, and @gmasportsph on social media.

NCAA mourns ref passing

The National Collegiate Athletic Association lost one member of its family recently.

One of its referees, William Bulacan, passed away following a vehicular accident in Ragay, Camarines Sur last October 30.

In a statement released by the Office of the Commissioner, the league says about Bulacan, "His dedication, professionalism, and commitment to upholding the integrity of our game have left a mark on our NCAA Season 101 and the collegiate basketball community."

Statement also says, "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Bulacan during this difficult time."

In concluding the statement, it writes, "He will always be remembered as part of the NCAA basketball community."

CSB extends current streak to three

c/o NCAA

Bucking the absence of key cog Allen Liwag, the College of Saint Benilde extended its winning streak to three games after a 73-65 victory over Jose Rizal University in San Juan on Sunday.

Head coach Charles Tiu noted afterwards, "We just had to weather the storm. That’s something we talked about." He adds, "Give credit to JRU. They’re a really good team and they play so hard. Those (JRU) kids are young but man, they’re legit."

The Heavy Bombers managed to creep close after Sean Salvador made three free throws to reduce its deficit to 65-63 with under three minutes left, but the Blazers regained their footing thanks to their defense and buckets from Raffy Celis and Justine Sanchez.

The former led all scorers with twenty points, while the latter added seventeen points, six rebounds, and five assists.

Salvador would top JRU with his thirteen markers, while Jun Peñaverde contributed eleven for the cause, as they dropped to 2-2 in the ongoing season.

In juniors action, the Light Bombers rode on a strong fourth quarter against La Salle-Greenhills to emerge as 66-64 victors.

The scores:

CSB 73 - Celis 20, Sanchez 17, Morales 7, Ancheta 5, Umali 5, Moore 5, Oli 5, Gaspay 3, Eusebio 2, Cajucom 2, Ynot 1, Galas 1, Jalalon 0

JRU 65 - Salvador 13, Peñaverde 11, Argente 9, Lozano 9, Benitez 7, Panapanaan 5, Laurenaria 5, Garupil 4, Herrera 2, Duque 0, Castillo 0, Sarmiento 0

Perpetual Help extends winning run to four to start NCAA Season 101

c/o NCAA

The University of Perpetual Help System Dalta kept its record in the NCAA Season 101 Men's Basketball tournament unblemished after escaping as 72-67 winners against Arellano University on Saturday afternoon at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Mark Gojo Cruz led the Altas with thirteen points. He shared afterwards, "Kinailangan namin laruin possession by possession ‘yong laro kasi ‘di namin kailangan sumabay sa kanila sa transition."

The sophomore adds, "Focused lang kami. Sabi lang namin sa isa’t isa na magfocus at kung sino ‘yong open titira lang."

Also finishing in double figures for Perpetual are Patrick Sleat and Josiah Alcantara, with twelve and eleven markers, respectively.

TMac Ongotan led all scorers with twenty points, but the defeat drops the Chiefs to 1-2. 

The Olsen Racela-coached side is hoping to extend their streak to five when they face the Colegio de San Juan this Wednesday at San Juan.

In their juniors matchup,  Ray Ladica's jumper with six seconds remaining proved to be the winning basket for Arellano's 97-95 triumph over the defending champions.

Ladica finished with 23 points for the Braves.

The Junior Altas had a chance to force the game into overtime, but Ezekiel Zamoras and Lance Nitura  missed their respective chances in the final seconds.

The scores:

PERPETUAL HELP 72 – Gojo Cruz 13, Sleat 12, Alcantara 11, Boral 8, Orgo 7, Casinilio 7, Tulabut 6, Nuñez 4, Abis 2, Maglupay 2, Pagulayan 0, Guibao 0

ARELLANO 67 – Ongotan 20, Valencia 10, Vinoya 8, Libang 6, Hernal 6, Geronimo 5, Camay 4, Borromeo 4, Cabotaje 2, Acop 2, Buenaventura 0, Abiera 0, Langit 0, Anama 0

Letran ends NCAA Season 101 skid against EAC

c/o NCAA

Colegio de San Juan de Letran finally entered the win column in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament, snapping its losing streak with an 84-80 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Deo Cuajao led the way for the Knights with 23 points, while Kevin Santos added fifteen markers.

Jonathan Manalili and Aaron Buensalida also contributed with their respective double-doubles in the effort. The former registered twelve points and thirteen assists, while the latter tacked on twelve and eleven rebounds.

For Letran coach Allen Ricardo, he explained the slow start his wards went through and explained that some things simply take time.

“Siyempre at the end of the day ‘yong cohesiveness at chemistry will take some time,” he said, while noting that, "I’m hoping na little by little, magpeak na rin itong team natin."

Nico Quinal and Wilmar Oftana led the Generals with 16 points each as they dropped to a 1-2 record.

Meanwhile, EAC-ICA nipped Letran in juniors action, 83-81.

A jumper from Clint Bonus gave the Brigadiers the lead for good with 37 seconds left. After Noel Lanceta split his charities to give EAC-ICA a two-point lead, Nathan Egea missed the potential game-winning triple as the buzzer sounds.

Kelly Coronel led his team with sixteen points while also blocking three shots, while Bonus finished with fifteen points and eight assists.

Egea led the Squires with sixteen points.

The scores:

LETRAN 84 – Cuajao 23, Santos 15, Buensalida 12, Manalili 12, Estrada 8, Gammad 6, Omega 4, Rosilio 3, Tapenio 1, Gazzingan 0

EAC 80 – Oftana 16, Quinal 16, Bagay 12, Ochavo 12, Castillo 7, 
Omandac 6, Lucero 4, Shanoda 4, Angeles 3, Loristo 0, Doria 0, Tolentino 0, Devara 0, Bacud 0, Jacob 0

Laurenaria ensure JRU stunner over San Beda

c/o NCAA

Allen Laurenaria provided the winning dramatics for Jose Rizal University, scoring the game-winner against San Beda at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Friday afternoon.

The guard drove through a wide-open lane to net his sixth point, giving the Heavy Bombers a 67-66 lead with four seconds left.

The Red Lions would have a chance to snatch the win on the final possession, but Bryan Sajonia missed his baseline jumper. The FEU transfer led the Mendiola-based squad with sixteen points. 

Head coach Nani Epondulan highlights the importance of the win, says "Malaking panalo ‘to para bigyan ng kumpyansa ‘yong team." He adds, "Lagi naming sinasabi sa kanila every practice na mas malaki man at mas athletic ‘yong ibang team, maliit lang kami pero ‘yong puso namin malaki."

Sean Salvador and Justin Lozano led JRU with fifteen and thirteen points, respectively, while Janti Miller added thirteen points for San Beda.

The Heavy Bombers seek their third win of the campaign against CSB on Sunday, while the Red Lions will seek to match that when they tangle against EAC on Tuesday, with both matches taking place in San Juan.

The scores:

JRU 67 – Salvador 15, Lozano 13, Panapanaan 9, Argente 8, Garupil 7, Laurenaria 6, Herrera 5, Sarmiento 3, Castillo 1, Benitez 0, Peñaverde 0, Duque 0

SAN BEDA 66 – Sajonia 16, Miller 13, Lina 13, Etulle 8, Gonzales 6, Reyes 4, Celzo 2, Culdora 2, Puno 2, Estacio 0, Bonzalida 0, Calimag 0, Jalbuena 0, Vailoces 0, Songcuya 0

San Sebastian keeps Lyceum winless in double OT thriller

c/o NCAA

San Sebastian barges into the win column of the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament on Friday, needing two overtime periods to fend off Lyceum, 100-94, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

After an Ato Barba bucket to cut the deficit to a single point at 95-94 with 41 seconds left, Ian Cuajao converts a triple to restore a two-possession lead with twenty seconds left.

Barba, who finished with a game-high 32 points, would have a chance to answer, but he missed a layup with twelve seconds on the clock.

Jhuniel dela Rama then grabbed the rebound off said miss, his 23rd of the game, get fouled, and convert the two subsequent free throws for the final points of the game.

Golden Stags head coach Rob Labagala shares afterwards, "Before we were able to get this win, ang hirap ng pinagdaanan namin." He also adds, "Pero, it’s a good win for us kasi it’s not just a positive thing to win, nakakuha din kami ng ganitong klaseng experience as early as now."

Cuajao would finish with 25 points, while dela Rama secured a double-double with his fifteen markers. Also finishing with 25 is Christian Ricio, who shot 10/19 from the field.

San Sebastian looks to build on this as they face defending champions Mapua on Sunday in San Juan, while the Pirates, who were led with nineteen points from Joshua Moralejo and fifteen from Renz Villegas, will seek to end their skid against Arellano on Tuesday at the same venue.

The scores:

SAN SEBASTIAN 100 – Cuajao 25, Ricio 25, Dela Rama 15, Castor 12, Felebrico 8, Lumanag 6, Gabat 6, Nepacena 3, Velasco 0, Cabilla 0, Dimaunahan 0, Are 0

LYCEUM 94 – Barba 32, Moralejo 19, Villegas 15, Versoza 6, Daileg 6, Peñafiel 6, Abregana 6, Montaño 2, Casiño 2, Aurige 0, Aviles 0, Pallingayan 0, Dural 0, Gordon 0

CSB keeps Letran winless in NCAA seniors

c/o NCAA

The College of Saint Benilde extended the woes of Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Wednesday afternoon, after the Blazers defeated the Knights in San Juan, 95-80, securing back-to-back wins in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament.

After their opening day loss to San Beda, CSB would then dispatch EAC this past weekend, before adding Letran's scalp to rise to a 2-1 record in Group B.

Justine Sanchez led the team with 23 points, five rebounds, three assists, and three steals. He shared afterwards, "Di naman lalabas ‘yong best ko kung hindi ko pinaghihirapan."

The San Beda transfer adds, "Blessed lang ako at thankful dahil at the end of the day, lumalabas ‘yong mga pinagppracticean ko."

Matthew Oli added twenty markers to provide offensive support, while Jhomel Ancheta chipped in sixteen of his own.

Jonathan Manalili led Letran with 23 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists in the defeat, their third straight to start the season. The Knights came into the game sporting fresh buzz cuts in hopes of getting the same kind of luck CSB had when they pulled off something similar coming into their match against EAC.

The Generals also happen to be Letran's next opponent, slated to take place Saturday morning at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

As for CSB, they will have a chance to win their third straight game against Jose Rizal University the next day when action returns to San Juan after their Pasay pit-stop. 

The scores:

ST. BENILDE 95 - Sanchez 23, Oli 20, Ancheta 16, Umali 13, Moore 8, Celis 6, Gaspay 4, Torres 4, Ynot 1, Morales 0, Galas 0, Eusebio 0

LETRAN 80 - Manalili 23, Gammad 18, Cuajao 15, Santos 7, Buensalida 7, Omega 5, Gazzingan 4, Tapenio 1, Rosilio 0, Yusi 0, Silorio 0

Quarter scores: 31-18, 44-45, 65-62, 95-80

Perpetual Help stuns Mapua to enter historic 3-0 start

c/o NCAA

In a matchup featuring undefeated teams in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament, the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta escaped as 75-65 winners against the Mapua Cardinals on Wednesday.

The Altas stymied the defending champions in the final period, allowing just a single point in the final six and a half minutes of the game, while scoring the last ten points of the match in the last four and a half minutes.

Four players scored in double digits for the Altas with JP Boral’s 15-point game headlining the pack. LA Casinillo, Patrick Sleat and Mark Gojo Cruz turned in 13, 12 and 12 points, respectively en route to the win. 

Head coach Olsen Racela says about the team's efforts so far this season, "This is a culmination of so many hours in practice and the preseason." He adds, "I can’t take credit for the skills my players have. It was a total team effort."

In the process, Perpetual secured their first 3-0 start to a season since a decade ago, when current team manager and Gilas cog Scottie Thompson was still playing for the Altas.

The Las Pinas-based squad will have the chance to extend this streak to four on Saturday when they face Arellano at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Mapua drops to 2-1, with JC Recto contributing sixteen points, two rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block. Cyril Gonzales also added fifteen markers for the Cardinals, who will have the chance to bounce back on Sunday against San Sebastian.

The Intramuros-based institution did have some good news with the Red Robins earning a 65-57 victory over the Altalettes in juniors action.

The scores:

PERPETUAL HELP 75 – Boral 15, Casinilio 13, Sleat 12, Gojo Cruz 12, Orgo 9, Abis 4, Alcantara 4, Maglupay 3, Nuñez 3, Gelsano 0, Pagulayan 0

MAPÚA 65 – Recto 16, Gonzales 15, Cuenco 8, Lazarte 7, Escamis 6, Gulapa 3, Concepcion 2, Nitura 2, Sapasap 2, Delos Reyes 2, Reyes 2, Callangan 0, Ryan 0

Quarter scores: 19-21, 39-40, 57-53, 75-65

EAC holds off JRU in NCAA nail-biter

c/o NCAA

Emilio Aguinaldo College made sure to not fall into the same trap as Letran did, escaping as 68-65 winners against Jose Rizal University in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament action in San Juan on Tuesday afternoon.

After Shawn Argente converted a triple to tie the game at 65-all with 2:49 left, Nico Quinal responded with his own triple with 94 seconds to go to restore the advantage.

The Heavy Bombers would have a chance to force overtime, but both Argente and Justin Lozano missed their attempts from deep, ensuring the Generals hold on.

Quinal would finish with ten points, five rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Wilmar Oftana led EAC with thirteen points, while Oman Omandac also added ten markers.

Jerson Cabiltes noted the magnitude of this early matchup, saying, "I reminded the boys that if we lost this game, it’ll be hard for us to reach our short term goal, which is to be in the Top 2 of out bracket."

Argente fired a game-high 27 points, with Sean Salvador tacking on eleven and Lozano netting ten markers in the defeat. 

The win puts both teams at 1-1.

EAC-ICA also won their juniors matchup against JRU, earning a 60-51 victory.

Both teams will be playing at the Mall of Asia Arena next, with the Heavy Bombers tangling with San Beda on Friday, while the Generals get the Knights on Saturday. 

The scores:

EAC 68 – Oftana 13, Omandac 10, Quinal 10, Castillo 9, Doria 8, Shanoda 6, Bagay 4, Ochavo 3, Lucero 3, Villarente 2, Loristo 0, Tolentino 0, Angeles 0, Bacud 0, Jacob 0

JRU 65 – Argente 27, Salvador 11, Lozano 10, Panapanaan 4, Peñaverde 3, Garupil 3, Herrera 2, Laurenaria 2, Sarmiento 2, Benitez 1, Duque 0

Quarter scores: 20-14, 33-34, 48-50, 68-65

EAC 60 – Coronel 16, Allam 10, Bonus 10, Taganas 6, Domingo 6, Lanceta 3, Castro 3, Dela Cruz 2, Bercasio 2, Castillo 2, Auditor 0, Cesar 0, Lucero 0, Francisco 0

JRU 51 – Sapatram 15, Loque 12, Ruedas 10, Roales 6, Laxamana 4, Caspe 2, Ong 1, Taparan 1, Callueng 0, Tailan 0, Estocapio 0, Lumaking 0, Palles 0

Quarter scores: 14-9, 32-26, 48-35, 60-51

Abiera perfection anchors Arellano triumph

c/o NCAA

Arellano University rode on a perfect performance from Renzo Abiera to pull off an 82-66 victory over San Sebastian to kick off this week's action at the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament in San Juan on Tuesday.

Abiera made all eight of his shots to finish with a game-high nineteen points, while also adding a couple of rebounds, an assist, and a block. Each chipping fifteen markers are Maverick Vinoya and Aaron Cabotaje to secure the win after giving a solid test to defending champions Mapua over the weekend.

Head coach Chico Manabat praised his wards afterwards, saying "Pinakamaganda dito e nagttrabaho lahat ‘yong mga bata at ‘yong (mga) coaches." He adds, "Sometimes, hindi’ yong madaming panalo, ‘yong tamang panahon para manalo talaga ‘yong tinatrabaho nila."

Ian Cuajao and Christian Ricio led the Golden Stags with twelve points each, as they drop to 0-2. 

The Legarda-based school had double the reason to celebrate after the Braves blew out the Staglets in juniors action earlier in the morning, 92-61.

The scores:

ARELLANO 92 - Dy 18, Ladica 16, Baluyot 12, Franco 12, Vergara 10, Tagorda 8, Manansala 7, Sapo 5, Mendoza 2, Pascual 2, Pillas 0, Pangilinan 0, Aurita 0, Asal 0, Guiral 0

SAN SEBASTIAN 61 - Castillo 12, Tepan 11, Ramiso 9, Ynot 9, Scott 7, Aninipot 6, Victoria 3, Gutierrez 2, Andrada 2, Dela Cruz 0, Gaviola 0, Rizano 0, Agojo 0

Quarter scores: 21-18, 48-34, 69-50, 92-61

ARELLANO 82 – Abiera 19, Vinoya 15, Cabotaje 15, Valencia 8, Geronimo 8, Libang 5, Borromeo 4, Hernal 3, Langit 3, Camay 1, Buenaventura 1, Anama 0, Miller 0, Demetria 0, Espiritu 0

SAN SEBASTIAN 66 – Cuajao 12, Ricio 12, Dela Rama 10, Felebrico 8, Lumanag 8, Gabat 7, Are 5, Nepacena 2, Dimaunahan 2, Castor 0, Cabilla 0, Gomez de Liaño 0, Velasco 0

Quarter scores: 23-22, 48-36, 65-57, 82-66

San Beda drops Letran for back-to-back wins

c/o NCAA

San Beda came out on top against Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Sunday afternoon, earning a 68-58 victory in the marquee game of the day in San Juan for the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament.

Head coach Yuri Escueta shared about their rivalry, noting that "There’s really no extra motivation but every time you play Letran you know they’re a strong team that you really have to prepare for."

He adds, "I even look at them (Knights) as an all-star team so I tip my hats off to my guys for playing defense and guarding our defensive targets."

Janti Miller impressed in his first game within this rivalry, leading all scorers with 22 points, while Bryan Sajonia was the only other Red Lion in double figures with eleven markers.

San Beda played without their captain Yukien Andrada, who sat out due to a shoulder sprain.

Leading the Knights in the defeat is Jonathan Manalili, who stuffed the stat sheet with thirteen points, a couple of rebounds, six assists, and a couple of steals. Deo Cuajao added ten markers, as they fell to 0-2 to start off the season.

Letran would manage to split the scheduled matchups, as the Squires emerged as 63-61 winners over the Red Cubs.

UPIS transfer Nathan Egea led the way with fifteen points as the lone Squire in double figures.

The Scores:

SAN BEDA 68 – Miller 22, Sajonia 11, Lina 6, Reyes 6, Gonzales 5, Celzo 5, Etulle 4, Estacio 3, Puno 2, Bonzalida 2, Culdora 2, Songcuya 0, Jalbuena 0

LETRAN 58 – Manalili 13, Cuajao 10, Rosilio 7, Buensalida 6, Estrada 5, Omega 5, Santos 4, Roque 4, Tapenio 3, Gazzingan 1, Gammad 0

Quarter scores: 22-18, 37-34, 53-45, 68-58

LETRAN 63 - Egea 15, Villanueva 9, M. Pascual 7, Cargo 6, Dahino 6,  T. Pascual 5, Valdeavilla 5, Chua 4, Cabanero 4, Timbol 2, Macadangdang 0, Lumague 0, Gelin 0, Barrieta 0

SAN BEDA 61 - Ugaddan 20, Larosa 12, Mejia 12, Gravador 6, Nonato 5, San Juan 3, Tauber 2, Wagan 1, Feliciano 0, Jomalesa 0, Bonzalida 0, Bautista 0, Villanueva 0, San Buenaventura 0, Agbayani 0

Quarter scores: 13-18, 34-29, 48-49, 63-61

Altas secure back-to-back wins in NCAA

c/o NCAA

The University of Perpetual Help System Dalta secured back-to-back victories to kick off its NCAA Season 101 men's basketball campaign on Sunday, defeating Lyceum, 73-61, in San Juan.

Mark Gojo Cruz led the Altas with eighteen points, while also adding four rebounds, four assists, and three steals. The sophomore says after the performance, "Pinrepare ko lang ‘yong sarili ko at ‘yong mind ko na kahit sophomore ako, kailangan ko na maglead."

He adds, "Ang goal ko lang naman talaga ay depensa pero (ngayon) may bonus pang opensa."

Complementing Gojo Cruz is Jearico Nunez, who earned a double-double with thirteen markers and ten boards.

The Pirates fell to 0-2, with Renz Villegas top-scoring with eighteen points in the defeat.

In the earlier juniors matchup, Perpetual also earned the victory with a 70-62 triumph, with Arkin Cristobal notching a near-double-double with fifteen points and nine rebounds.

The Altas will have a chance to extend their winning streak to three against the defending champions Mapua on Wednesday.

As for Lyceum, they will have another crack at entering the win column against San Sebastian on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Scores:

PERPETUAL HELP 70 – Cristobal 15, Corpuz 14, Patalinghug 6, Zamoras 6, Zanoria 5, Rosales 5, Llupar 5, Binagatan 5, Nitura 4, Rosales 3, Dulanas 2, Velasquez 0, Ferrer 0, Villaruel 0, Restificar 0

LYCEUM 62 – Creus 18, Panerio 10, Pelayo 9, Bo 7, Mercado 6, Yonzon 5, Omelio 3, Fabian 2, Peña 1, Araneta 1, Altamirano 0, Nodalo 0

Quarter scores: 14-15, 38-31, 51-51, 70-62


PERPETUAL HELP 73 – Gojo Cruz 18, Nuñez 13, Orgo 9, Sleat 9, Boral 8, Abis 6, Maglupay 4, Tulabut 4, Gelsano 2, Alcanatara 0, Casinilio 0, Duremdes 0, Roluna 0

LYCEUM 61 – Villegas 18, Montaño 11, Daileg 9, Peñafiel 8, Versoza 6, Aurige 4, Gordon 3, Moralejo 2, Barba 0, Aviles 0, Pallingayan 0, Matienzo 0, Casiño 0, Paulo 0

Quarter scores: 21-20, 46-34, 59-43, 73-61

Benilde routs EAC for first win of Season 101

c/o NCAA

Sporting new buzz cuts, the College of Saint Benilde bounced back from their disappointing season opener to emerge as 74-63 winners against Emilio Aguinaldo College in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament in San Juan on Saturday afternoon.

Justine Sanchez nailed four triples on his way to a game-high sixteen points, while Allen Liwag added fourteen with seven rebounds and three blocks.

Charles Tiu shared that the 96-85 defeat to San Beda served as effective motivation to bounce back for this matchup. He says, "We lost to San Beda because we didn’t play well at all. I kept telling them we had to play our A-Game, which we didn’t."

The mentor adds, "We wanted to be angry that we lost… I’m happy that the guys had the intensity today. they were a bit more focused today."

Jude Bagay led the Generals with fifteen points, while Wilmar Oftana was the only other guy in double figures with ten markers. 

CSB will have a chance to secure their second win against Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Wedneaday, while EAC will try to bring back Jose Rizal University down to earth a day earlier.

To cap off Saturday's quadruple-header, La Salle-Greenhills escaped as 91-89 winners against EAC-ICA in juniors action.

Patrick Pasinos scored with 23 seconds remaining to give the Greenies the lead at 90-89. The Brigadiers had a chance to immediately retake the lead, but James Castro missed a jumper with eleven seconds to go.

Castro would have a second chance after a Camillo Jugo a free throw made it a two-point game, but he missed what would have been a game-winning triple with a second left.

The scores:

College of ST. BENILDE 74 - Sanchez 16, Liwag 14, Cometa 9, Torres 7, Umali 6, Moore 6, Celis 5, Ancheta 4, Gaspay 2, Morales 2, Cajucom 2, Eusebio 1, Oli 0, Daja 0, Galas 0

EAC 63 - Bagay 15, Oftana 10, Castillo 8, Angeles 8, Loristo 6, Ochavo 4, Postanes 4, Shanoda 3, Villarente 3, Lucero 2, Tolentino 0, Dominguez 0, Omandac 0, Quinal 0, Bacud 0

Quarter scores: 22-17, 37-32, 57-46, 75-63

La Salle-Greenhills 91 - Calo-oy 25, Jugo 15, Hizon 13, Bautista 12, Pasinos 9, Gacrama 6, Yutuc 5, Teodoro 3, Calanasan 3, Tuason 0

EAC-ICA 89 - Castro 26, Coronel 15, Bonus 12, Allam 10, Lanceta 10, Domingo 6, Taganas 3, dela Cruz 2, Auditor 2, Lucero 2, Jawali 1, Carniyan 0, Cesar 0

Quarter scores 24-11, 49-38, 70-68, 91-89

Escamis, Cuenco shine as Mapua squeak past Arellano

c/o NCAA

Make it back-to-back victories for Mapua in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament, as they escaped 90-87 winners against Arellano on Saturday afternoon in San Juan.

Clint Escamis scored a game-high 29 points for the Cardinals, bouncing back from being limited to just eight during the opener. Last season's Finals MVP also added three rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

He shared to the media afterwards, "“Gusto ko lang talaga makabawi from that game na ‘yon." The Collegiate Press Corps' reigning Player of the Year adds, "I know my teammates got my back but I know I still needed to perform today, lead and facilitate for the team to serve as a good example."

Arellano managed to remain within striking distance of the champions, but Cy Cuenco stepped up once again in the clutch, converting a triple with 67 seconds left to restore a two-possession lead. Although the Chiefs answered with a Yuan Camay and-1 on the next possession, he then dished an assist to Yam Concepcion for a bucket to make it 89-85 with 38 seconds to go.

Joseph Hernal reduced it once again to a one-possession game with 27 seconds left, but Cuenco split his charities after Arellano was forced to foul to stop the clock.

Camay had a chance to force an extension, but Marcus Nitura blocked the shot with six seconds left to ensure the win.

Cuenco finished with fourteen points, with Cyril Gonzales added twelve markers. Nitura stuffed the stat sheet with ten points, ten rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a couple of blocks.

Basty Valencia led Arellano with thirteen points, while Renzo Abiera tacked twelve markers.

Mapua seeks to extend their winning streak to three against Perpetual on Wednesday, whilst the Chiefs will look to bounce back against San Sebastian a day earlier.

Opening things earlier today is the Red Robins' 83-80 win over the Braves.

Kean Dungca finished with 21 points, while Chris Parame added a double-double with ten points and fourteen rebounds.

The scores: 

MAPÚA 83 – Dungca 21, Reyes 13, Mercado 12, Parame 10, Palis 10, Castro 6, Bernabe 6, Bagro 3, Victolero 2, Villavicencio 0, Gemao 0

ARELLANO 80 – Franco 19, Ladica 13, Dy 12, Mendoza 9, Manansala 9, Tagorda 5, Vergara 5, Pangilinan 4, Pillas 2, Sapo 2, Pascual 0, Aurita 0, Guance 0, Guiral 0, Asay 0

Quarter scores: 17-23, 40-48, 67-65, 83-80

MAPÚA 90 – Escamis 29, Cuenco 14, Gonzales 12, Nitura 10, Sapasap 9, Reyes 5, Concepcion 5, Lazarte 4, Recto 2, Gulapa 0, Igliane 0, Delos Reyes 0, Ryan 0

ARELLANO 87 – Valencia 13, Abiera 12, Hernal 11, Ongotan 10, Libang 10, Camay 8, Cabotaje 6, Borromeo 5, Vinoya 4, Geronimo 4, Demetria 4, Acop 0, Buenaventura 0, Miller 0

JRU stuns Letran in its NCAA season opener

c/o NCAA

Jose Rizal University pulled off a stunner to start their stint at the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball tournament on Friday, securing a 73-69 nail-biter against Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Friday afternoon in San Juan.

Leading by as much as sixteen points, the Heavy Bombers had to deal with a strong final period from the Knights, as they scored 23 points.

A free throw from Jonathan Manalili managed to make it a one-possession game with fourteen seconds left, but Justin Lozano would restore the two-possession lead on a free throw after a quick foul by the Knights.

Chad Gammad missed a three with nine seconds remaining, and although Lozano would miss two free throws after being fouled three seconds later, Letran ran out of time to stumble on their season opener.

New head coach Nani Epondulan says about the game, "Lagi nating sinasabi na kung merong tatakbo dapat kami."

The JRU legend adds, "Lagi ko ring sinasabi sa kanila na ibigay nila kahat kasi noon pa lang, nobody was expecting us kung anong magiging performance namin."

Lozano finished with a game-high seventeen points, while also adding three rebounds and three assists. Sean Salvador added ten for the Heavy Bombers, while Ivan Panapanaan had a near-double-double with eight points and fourteen rebounds.

Jimboy Estrada led Letran with fourteen points, five rebounds, four assists, and a couple of steals before fouling out. Manalili and Gammad each added eleven markers, with the former also chipping in six boards and three dimes.

Making up for the defeat is the Squires' 62-52 victory over the Light Bombers in juniors action. Harvey Macadangdang led the way with fourteen points in the victory. Letran limited their opponents to just nineteen points in the second half to emerge victorious. 

The Knights are set to tangle against rivals San Beda on Sunday afternoon, while JRU gets Emilio Aguinaldo College on Tuesday.

The scores (Srs and Jrs)

JRU 73 – Lozano 17, Salvador 10, Panapanaan 8, Peñaverde 7, Garupil 6, Laurenaria 6, Herrera 6, Benitez 5, Argente 4, Sarmiento 2, Castillo 2, Esguerra 0, Duque 0

LETRAN 69 – Estrada 14, Manalili 11, Gammad 11, Roque 10, Santos 10, Tapenio 9, Rosilio 2, Omega 2, Yusi 0, Silorio 0, Buensalida 0

The scores:

LETRAN 62 – Macadangdag 14, Cargo 8, Dahino 8, M. Pascual 8, T. Pascual 7, Egea 5, Lumague 4, Valdeavilla 4, Villanueva 2, Cabañero 2, Chua 0, Timbol 0, Gelin 0, Barrieta

JRU 52 – Laxamana 12, Taparan 10, Callueng 8, Mallorca 7, Sapatram 6, Ong 4, Ruedas 3, Estocapio 2, Loque 0, Tailan 0, Palles 0, Roales 0, Caspe 0 

Quarter scores: 16-18, 35-33, 56-43, 62-52