The San Beda University Red Lions have officially returned to the peak of collegiate basketball, securing their 24th NCAA men’s seniors basketball championship after dispatching archrival Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 83-71, to complete a finals sweep on Saturday at the Araneta Coliseum.
The victory marked the Red Lions’ first sweep over the Knights since 2013, dealing heartbreak to Letran in Season 101 and re-establishing San Beda’s dynasty in the league.
Coach Yuri Escueta’s squad showed resilience and depth, winning the title-clinching Game 2 despite the absence of star guard Janti Miller, who was serving a one-game suspension.
The Mendiola-based cagers relied on a masterful third quarter, where they outscored the Knights 28-14 to establish a lead that Letran could not overcome.
The championship victory was a celebration of the team’s balance, led by Finals MVP Bryan Sajonia.
The graduating guard, who joined the team after their previous title run, delivered 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a steal in the decisive game, capping his stellar performance with a pivotal three-pointer late in the fourth quarter to fend off a potential Letran rally.
He was matched by fellow graduating swingman Yukien Andrada, who also poured in 21 points, 15 of which came in the second half. Nygel Gonzales added 19 points, three rebounds, and four assists, demonstrating the team’s collective effort in securing the coveted trophy.
The Knights, led by rookie sensation Jonathan Manalili’s 15 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, fought hard but ultimately could not solve the Red Lions’ defensive adjustments and scoring prowess, falling short of forcing a winner-take-all Game 3.
The sweep solidifies San Beda’s dominance in the historic rivalry, adding another chapter to their league-leading collection of collegiate championships.