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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Collegiate devider Benilde, Letran renew rivalry, begin NCAA series

Benilde, Letran renew rivalry, begin NCAA series

Published Apr 4, 2026 02:45 pm

At A Glance

  • Defending champion College of St. Benilde and Letran renew their rivalry as they begin their Finals trilogy for the NCAA crown in Game 1 of Season 101 women's volleyball tournament at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila Sunday, April 5.
The CSB Lady Blazers eye strong start against the Letran Lady Knights in Game of 1 of NCAA Season 101 women's volleyball finals. (GMA/NCAA Images)
The CSB Lady Blazers eye strong start against the Letran Lady Knights in Game of 1 of NCAA Season 101 women's volleyball finals. (GMA/NCAA Images)
Defending champion College of St. Benilde and Letran renew their rivalry as they begin their Finals trilogy for the NCAA crown in Game 1 of Season 101 women’s volleyball tournament at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila Sunday, April 5.
Both motivated to complete their respective goals this year with the Lady Blazers seeking to achieve a rare five-peat and sixth overall title, while the Lady Knights hope to end their nearly three-decade title drought .
The marquee duel fires off at 12 noon, following the 9 a.m. third-place men's clash between Arellano and Letran, and the 3 p.m. finals opener between Benilde and Mapua.
Touted as the favorites after winning in their last two finals affairs, the Taft-based squad is looking to keep its status as a powerhouse at the expense of Letran which had perfect run in the eliminations.
Easier said than done, the Lady Blazers must better their showing this time as their first meeting in the elims saw them stumble to the Lady Knights in a five-set thriller last Feb. 22.
Zam Nolasco, Chenae Basarte, Clydel Catarig and Cam Bartolome try to redeem themselves as they take charge for the Jerry Yee-mentored crew in the best-of-three series.
On the other hand, skipper Lara Mae Silva, Judiel Nitura, Vanessa Sarie, and Gia Maquilang pace the Intramuros-based squad which last reached the Promised Land way back in 1998-99 edition where the school delivered back-to-back titles.
Meanwhile, Mapua and Benilde have their opportunity to inch closer to become the newest ruler in the men’s side when they tangle in the opening game.
It’s been a while since both the Cardinals and the Blazers have hoisted the championship trophy, as the former took home the title 26 years ago, while the latter one got theirs in Season 92 (2016-17).

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NCAA Season 101 CSB Lady Blazers Letran Lady Knights
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