Lyceum secures Final Four spot with narrow win over Benilde

Lyceum of the Philippines University secured their place in the Final Four of the NCAA Season 100 men's basketball tournament with an 82-81 victory over De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, completing a four-game win streak and finishing with a 10-8 record.

Coach Gilbert Malabanan emphasized that Lyceum needs to improve their defense after squandering a 16-point lead during the game, despite Ato Barba's standout performance with 27 points and perfect shooting (9-of-9).

Greg Cunanan sealed the win by blocking Gab Cometa’s potential game-winning shot with two seconds left, while Renz Villegas made crucial plays in the final moments.

Allen Liwag led Benilde with 20 points and 16 rebounds as they missed out on a historic Final Four appearance, dropping to 14-4.

Barba earned the final Collegiate Press Corps' NCAA Player of the Week award for his instrumental role in securing Lyceum's playoff berth, averaging 18 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals over their final two games.