The stage is set for an exciting NCAA Season 102 after the official bracket draw was held on Thursday, June 18, at the Philippine Columbian Association Sports Club. Defending NCAA Seniors Basketball champion San Beda University found itself once again placed in the so-called “group of death,” setting up a challenging path early in its title defense.
Group A: The Group of Death
San Beda headlines Group A alongside the CSB Blazers, JRU Heavy Bombers, Mapua Cardinals, and the Lyceum Pirates. This bracket features several teams that have reloaded their rosters significantly during the offseason. The Red Lions, now led by transferees Daniel Marcelo and Aldous Torculas, are coming off a championship run that saw them sweep Letran in the Season 101 Finals.
Benilde remains a formidable opponent with frontline stalwarts Allen Liwag and Justine Sanchez expected to lead the charge. JRU has also bolstered its lineup with former Mapua standouts Chris Hubilla and Lawrence Mabungat, alongside sophomore Sean Salvador. Meanwhile, Mapua and Lyceum are in rebuilding mode but have made major coaching moves — with Chito Victolero and Jamike Jarin taking the helm, respectively.
Group B: Letran Leads the Pack
On the other side of the bracket, the Letran Knights, still anchored by Titing Manalili, headline Group B together with Perpetual Help, San Sebastian, Arellano, and EAC. With San Beda and Letran separated as the finalists from the previous season, the stage is set for another potential finals showdown between the two storied programs.
Tournament Format
NCAA Season 102 will feature a total of 13 elimination-round games per team. Pool matches are scheduled for Games 1 through 4 and Games 10 through 13, while crossover matches will take place in Games 5 through 9. The top two teams in each group will advance outright to the quarterfinals with twice-to-beat incentives, while the bottom teams will compete in a play-in round. The semifinals and finals will both be played in a best-of-three series.
San Beda as Host
San Beda University also confirmed it will serve as the host school for NCAA Season 102, which is set to open in September 2026. The Red Lions previously hosted Season 92, making this a significant homecoming for the school. The league is also expected to announce a new broadcast partner soon, with multiple networks including ABS-CBN, GMA, and others expressing interest in securing the rights.
With stacked rosters, high-profile coaching changes, and the intense San Beda-Letran rivalry set to continue, NCAA Season 102 basketball action promises to deliver top-tier collegiate competition. Fans have plenty to look forward to when the new season tips off later this year.
For NCAA fan gear and apparel, check out our collection of NCAA Philippines merchandise to represent your favorite school this upcoming season.