San Beda University opens its bid for a fourth straight championship against the Arellano Chiefs as the 95th season of the NCAA begins this Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
"All the teams beefed up, including the coaches. The teams are strong, but of course, we're out to defend the crown," said coach Boyet Fernandez during the league's annual press conference on Monday.
The Red Lions remain the heavy favorites having won the last three titles, but the field is wide open according to a number of the coaches.
"The teams are pretty much well balanced this time," said Benilde coach TY Tang. The Blazers ended up in fifth place last year, a spot short of the coveted Final Four.
"Obviously it's gonna be a battle for the rest of the teams," said Lyceum coach Topex Robinson as the Pirates are hoping to finally break through after losing in two straight finals against San Beda.
"I can't single out any team right now. Based on the preseason, everybody's been really stepping up. There was also a lot of exposure in the PBA D League. One thing's for sure, it's gonna be an exciting season for us," he added.
During the offseason, there were a total of five coaching changes.
Oliver Bunyi will man the EAC Generals, while Bonnie Tan will make his return to the league with the Letran Knights. Former San Beda assistant coach Cholo Martin will call the shots for Arellano and Mapua mentor Randy Alcantara has taken the jump from the Juniors to the Seniors Division. The JRU Heavy Bombers will be mentored by former La Salle coach Louie Gonzalez.
"From what I've seen in the preseason, there's always San Beda and LPU," said Gonzalez. "All the nine teams, you can't really disregard. For us, we're new. But we'll be ready for the season."
"Looking at the teams, San Beda and Lyceum still have the advantage. The other eight, I think we're gonna give them a good fight," chimed in Martin.
The NCAA on Tour, the home-and-away format of the league, will continue on its third year. There will be game days at EAC, Mapua, JRU, and Perpetual in the first round.
NCAA Season 95 will kick off this July 7 at the Mall of Asia Arena. The opening ceremonies will commence at 12 p.m. followed by the first game between Lyceum and Letran at 2 p.m. San Beda and hosts Arellano will face off at 4 p.m.