By: Kim Yoshi Espiritu
Photo Courtesy: NCAA Philippines
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 101 Men’s Basketball adopts a new tournament format, and Colegio de San Juan de Letran finds itself in a tougher path to glory.
Challenges kept coming for the Knights after acing the NCAA rankings during the recent FilOil preseason cup as they are fielded in the group of death along with other tournament favorites.
This current format divides the ten collegiate contenders into two groups and features five phase matchup.
Each division will race in a double round robin system to secure a top-three ranking in order to move forward to the quarterfinal phase.
And while the first six teams prepare for the post-season competition, the two bottom-seeded teams can still grab a slot in the quarters through the play-in tournament—just like in the NBA.
The competition then proceeds with the semifinals and championship phases.
Letran is drawn to bracket B with the league runner-ups College of Saint Benilde Blazers, long time rivals San Beda University Red Lions, revamped Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, and gritty Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals.
The season hosts and reigning champions, Mapua University Cardinals will defend its throne in Group A against the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates, University of Perpetual Help Altas, San Sebastian College-Recoletos Golden Stags, and Arellano University Chiefs.
Despite the excitement that the new season ushers in, it is undeniable that the teams will be extremely competitive as they fight for their rightful spots in the Grand Old League.
This season will certainly special for the Knights as they mend the heartbreak from last season’s dismal finish, led by phenomenal guard Jonathan Manalili and the trio of Deo Cuajao, Jun Roque, and Mark Omega who will play their final collegiate year after registering for the coming PBA Rookie Draft.
The most anticipated NCAA opening will be held on October 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum before formally commencing the following games at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum