MANILA – San Beda University Red Lions completed a sweep of the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball finals by defeating Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights, 83-71, in Game 2 on Saturday to secure its 24th championship at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Despite the absence of suspended guard Janti Miller, the Red Lions took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Knights 28-14 to build a decisive cushion they would not relinquish.
Graduating guard Yukien Andrada led San Beda with 21 points, scoring 15 in the second half highlighted by four three-pointers, as they wrapped up the best-of-three series at 2-0.
Ilonggo John Bryan Sajonia also finished with 21 points, including a crucial triple that extended the Red Lions’ lead to 76-69 with 1:59 remaining. Nygel Gonzales added 19 points, three rebounds, and four assists for San Beda.
The title marked San Beda’s second championship in four seasons under head coach Yuri Escueta and its 24th overall in NCAA seniors basketball history.
Earlier, University of Perpetual Help System Altas claimed third place after beating De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde Blazers, 87-75, in the battle for the bronze.
Patrick Sleat led the Altas with 19 points, seven assists, and three rebounds, while Mark Gojo Cruz contributed 13 points, five rebounds, and three assists.
Negrense Shawn Orgo also provided an early spark as Perpetual took a narrow 42-40 lead at halftime.
Benilde was paced by Anton Eusebio, who tallied 16 points and nine rebounds, but the Blazers struggled without reigning MVP Allen Liwag and veteran guard Tony Ynot.
The wins capped the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball competition, with San Beda reclaiming the championship and Perpetual finishing on the podium./PN
