Photo by: Maverick Rhoy De Vera /The LANCE
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) officially opens its 101st Season on Wednesday, October 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with host Mapua University leading the charge under the theme “Building Greatness.”
Mapua University NCAA Policy Board President Dr. Dodjie Maestrecampo highlighted this year’s theme, stressing that it is not merely a slogan but a call to action.
“Greatness is not measured only by victories and trophies. It is seen in the integrity we uphold, the discipline we live by, and the positive change we bring to our schools and our nation,” Maestrecampo said in his opening address.
Expanding its horizon, the country’s oldest collegiate league is introducing gymnastics, weightlifting, boxing, and golf as demonstration sports, fueling a stronger pathway for elite athlete development.
Energy filled the arena as the opening ceremony blended the traditional parade of athletes with show-stopping numbers from Thea Astley, Hannah Precillas, Naya Ambi, and Aicelle Santos.
The season sprang into action with a fiery senior men’s basketball doubleheader that echoed last year’s Final Four, as the Mapua Cardinals outlasted the LPU Pirates before the San Beda Red Lions roared past the CSB Blazers.
The Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights will kick off their season campaign on Friday, October 3, clashing with the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.