Benilde stuns defending champions San Beda in NCAA 102 Opening Day clash

The De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde Blazers opened their NCAA 102 campaign with a statement win, stunning defending champions San Beda University Red Lions, 77-68, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite playing without two-time NCAA MVP Allen Liwag, who remains sidelined while recovering from an injury, the Blazers leaned on a balanced effort and timely plays down the stretch to secure their first victory of the season.

“In the end game, we focused on the small details,” said Benilde Asst. Coach Pao Layug. “In minimizing turnovers and securing our free throws,” he added.

Jhomel Ancheta led the way for the Blazers, earning Best Player of the Game honors after finishing with 19 points, three assists, one steal, and one block.

Making an immediate impact in his debut for Benilde, Matthew Jucom also delivered a breakout performance with 18 points, one assist, one steal, and one block, providing the Blazers with another reliable offensive option.

Irele Galas added 12 points, two steals, and one assist, while Raffy Celis chipped in 11 points, two assists, two steals, and one block as Benilde maintained its momentum in the 4th Quarter against the defending champions.

With Liwag still recovering, Layug emphasized the importance of the rest of the roster stepping up in his absence.

“Allen Liwag is recovering, supporting the team. Hopefully, he can come back soon, but we have other guys to step in,” Layug said.

The Blazers' opening-day victory serves as an early warning to the rest of the league: Benilde remains a team to watch, even without one of its biggest stars.

With new names stepping up and the team finding ways to win against the defending champions, the Blazers have officially made their presence felt in the new NCAA season.

The scores: 

ST. BENILDE 77 - Ancheta 19, Jucom 18, Galas 12, Celis 11, Morales 8, Torres 3, Arciaga 3, Cajucom 2, Sanchez 1, Moore 0, Podador 0, Daja 0, Go 0

SAN BEDA 68 - Torculas 19, RC Calimag 9, Reyes 7, Marcelo 7, Lina 5, Hawkins 5, Bonzalida 4, Uggadan 4, Songcuya 4, Etulle 2, Jalbuena 2, Sarigumba 0, Estacio 0, Richi Calimag 0

Photo Credits: NCAA Philippines Media