LONG ROAD AHEAD! - PINOYLIGA THE BIG DANCE 2026

The Pinoyliga Collegiate Basketball power rankings are back, and the usual suspects are back at it too, but it does not mean that their rankings will stay the same, especially with all the movements and performances in the first few months of the year.

Looking at the landscape, we have seen a story of consistency, comeback, rebuilding, and a never-ending quest to put their stamp on every game they play.

On top of the rankings are the reigning NCAA and UAAP kings, San Beda Red Lions and De La Salle Green Archers, who have started dusting off their rust in hopes of a repeat of their success in the two biggest collegiate leagues in the country.

The Red Lions, despite losing some key players like Janti Miller, Bryan Sajona, and Yukien Andrada, are deep in talent as Daniel Marcelo, RC Calimag, and Zedjay Etulle lead them. The Red Lions are so far undefeated in their games in NSAC and U-Belt Collegiate Invitations, while the Green Archers, though they lost two key pieces in Michael Phillips and Kean Baclaan, remain a tough squad with Jacob Cortez, Luis Pablo, and Vhoris Marasigan taking charge.

Not far behind them are the UP Fighting Maroons, UST Growling Tigers, NU Bulldogs, and Letran Knights, who have built a team ready to contend and thwart the reigning champs’ repeat attempt

Also improving are the Benilde Blazers and JRU Heavy Bombers, who are both hungry for big-time recognition.

Ateneo Blue Eagles aim to forget their disastrous season last year by loading up blue-chip players led by Kieffer Alas, Travis Roberts, and Rene Baterbonia.

Coach Jerson Cabiltes and the EAC Generals are also making some noise after going back-to-back title conquests in the Pinoyliga Next Man Cup. For sure, they are ready to show what they are made of through their heart and hustle.

Outside of the NCAA and UAAP, St. Clare Saints have always been a consistent force, and with Coach Jino Manansala still at the helm, the Saints will remain a top squad in the NAASCU.

Coach Paul Ramos and the Guang Ming Flying Dragons have been on a roll as their runner-up finishes have caught the eye of basketball aficionados.

The New Era Hunters, along with the University of the Makati Herons, have shown progress in their program, with great performances lately. Surely, their movement will be watched closely by the basketball community.

Meanwhile, the CEU Scorpions, with Precious Momowei on tow, have lorded the UCAL Season as they are just a win away from winning the crown. However, standing in their way are the defending champs, Olivarez Sea Lions, who are aiming to give their graduating players a farewell gift, which is a championship repeat.

With a lot of action happening in the collegiate basketball scene, every ranking is temporary because nothing stays the same for that long, as teams improve every step of the way.

VIEW RANKINGS HERE: tinyurl.com/BIGDANCERANKING-0420