San Beda Red Lions win NCAA Season 99 basketball championship

The San Beda Red Lions completed a Cinderella run to win the NCAA Season 99 Men's Basketball Championship, defying expectations and historical trends.

Many doubted the Red Lions entering the season, especially given their lack of an import, as their last title in 2018 featured a foreign player.

Coach Yuri Escueta highlighted the team's resilience, noting that they drew strength from earlier season struggles and international play where they faced numerous losses.

These adversities, including losses in the D-League, Malaysia, and Davao, forged the team's ability to overcome challenges.

Experts also didn't give San Beda a chance prior to the season after underwhelming performances in the last two years, which saw them miss the finals for the first time in 14 straight appearances.

San Beda's triumph came after a Game Three victory over Mapua University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, securing their fairy tale run with a 76-66 win.