The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) officially kicked off its 101st season on Wednesday, October 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, highlighted by a dramatic double-overtime victory from defending champions Mapúa Cardinals over the Lyceum Pirates, 90–89.
The Cardinals, who entered the season as both host and reigning champions, were pushed to the limit in an intense opening-day rematch of last year’s Final Four. With team captain Clint Escamis fouling out late in regulation, Mapúa leaned on JC Recto, who delivered crucial baskets and defensive stops in both overtime periods to lead the Cardinals to a hard-fought win.
Recto finished with 16 points and nine rebounds, earning Player of the Game honors for his clutch performance.
The Pirates showed tremendous resilience throughout the match, forcing two extra periods through their relentless defensive pressure and outside shooting. However, the Cardinals’ composure down the stretch proved to be the difference, allowing them to start their title defense with a statement victory.
In the second game, the San Beda Red Lions opened their campaign with a 96–85 win over the De La Salle–College of St. Benilde Blazers. The Red Lions pulled away in the final quarter behind their fast-paced offense and balanced scoring attack.
The games were preceded by an elaborate opening ceremony featuring performances from Thea Astley, Hannah Precillas, Naya Ambi, and Aicelle Santos, with Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio serving as the guest speaker.
This season’s theme, “Building Greatness,” sets the tone for the NCAA’s vision as it enters its next century.
“For the past 100 years, we’ve seen student-athletes rise to the elite level. In the next 100 years, with the support of the PSC and our member schools, we hope to sustain our contribution to the national training pool,” said Paul Supan, NCAA Management Committee (MANCOM) member and athletic director of Jose Rizal University, during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.
In an interview with DZRH Digital, NCAA Season 101 MANCOM Chair Melchor Divina revealed that this season introduces several innovations, including a new tournament format dividing the 10 teams into two groups, and expanded partnerships with the PSC for better access to training facilities and officiating resources.
Divina also shared that the MANCOM is prioritizing a holistic approach to athlete development, with programs focused on mental health, academic support, and career readiness, alongside efforts to educate players about the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) framework to help them manage their personal brand responsibly.
“Layunin ng MANCOM na hindi lang athletic performance ang pagtutuunan ng pansin kundi pati ‘yong mental health, academics, at career development ng mga student-athletes,” said Divina.
The NCAA is also set to introduce Olympic sports such as gymnastics, weightlifting, boxing, and golf as demonstration events this season in partnership with the PSC, with plans to elevate them to regular sports in the coming years.
The next NCAA Season 101 games will be held on October 3 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, featuring Perpetual Help vs. San Sebastian and Letran vs. JRU in back-to-back showdowns. (with reports from Aldrine Benitez)
