The Benilde Blazers made a valiant effort in NCAA Season 100, finishing a campaign filled with grit, determination, and individual brilliance. Although they fell short in the finals, their journey to the championship series and individual accolades highlighted their remarkable season.
ELIMINATION ROUND
The Blazers started NCAA 100 as the favorites. Yes, they lost Season 98 MVP Will Gozum, team captain Robi Nayve, and starter Miggy Corteza to graduation, not to mention Migs Oczon to the Korea Basketball League. Still, Chris Tiu and Rajko Toroman Pied Piper-ed top transferees including former EAC General Allen Liwag, and the San Beda trio of Tony Ynot, Gab Cometa, and Justine Sanchez. The Blazers showcased their strength throughout the elimination round, finishing with an impressive 14-4 record and securing the second seed among ten teams. This performance was a testament to their balanced attack and defensive tenacity, setting the stage for their deep playoff run.
FINAL FOUR
In the semifinals, the Blazers faced the defending champions San Beda Red Lions, and demonstrated their resilience by defeating them in one game. Allen Liwag had 20 points in the game while the Red Lions' top five scorers were limited to a combined 21 points. Ynot didn't help matters for his former team as he finished with 17 points.
FINALS
The championship series against the Mapua Cardinals proved to be challenging for both teams because both squads were coming to the Finals with championship droughts. In the case of the Blazers, the last time they won a championship was when Sunday Salvacion was running the show. Despite their efforts, the Blazers were swept 0-2 in the finals. Allen Liwag delivered strong performances, but the team struggled to contain Mapua’s balanced offensive attack and defensive schemes. Yes, they couldn't stop Clint Escamis, but they also failed to stop the rest of the Mapua starters.
BENILDE BLAZERS
SEASON 100 IN REVIEW:
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FINAL RANK | RUNNER-UP
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ELIMINATION ROUND | 14-4 (2 OF 10)
FINAL FOUR | DEFEATED SAN BEDA (TWICE-TO-BEAT)
FINALS | LOST TO MAPUA, 0-2Â
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AWARDS
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER | ALLEN LIWAG
MYTHICAL FIVE | ALLEN LIWAG
MYTHICAL FIVE | TONY YNOT
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR | ALLEN LIWAG
ALL-DEFENSIVE TEAM | ALLEN LIWAG
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LEAGUE LEADERS
REBOUNDING CHAMPION | ALLEN LIWAG – 11.28 (ELIMS AVERAGE)
Allen Liwag’s consistent dominance on both ends of the floor earned him the league’s highest individual honor. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and defensive presence also set him apart as the league’s top defender. His ability to control the glass was a cornerstone of the Blazers’ game plan, and you can expect him to have a Gozum-like second NCAA year leading the Blazers to finally their first championship since 2000.
The Benilde Blazers’ Season 100 journey was a testament to their hard work, talent, and determination. Though they fell short of the ultimate prize, their achievements and individual accolades solidified their place as one of the premier teams in the NCAA. The future is bright for the Blazers, especially with Shawn Umali leading a new cast of names to help Benilde break their championship curse.