The future of Philippine basketball is here as the country’s first athletic collegiate league — the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) — welcomes the “New Heroes of the Game” as it officially opens Season 99 this Sept. 24 via the home of the NCAA, GMA Network.
Live from the Mall of Asia Arena and simulcast at 2 PM on GMA and GTV, this season’s opening ceremony showcases the 10-member schools – led by Season 99 host José Rizal University – that are all ready to shine on the hardcourt and be the new heroes for this season.
Geared up for another intense season as well are Arellano University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, College of Saint Benilde, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapua University, San Beda University, San Sebastian College-Recoletos, and University of Perpetual Help System-Dalta.
The start of the much-awaited NCAA Season 99 Men’s Basketball tournament follows on GTV with the host school José Rizal University Heavy Bombers facing the three-time defending champion Colegio de San Juan Letran Knights at 3:30 PM. The second game sees the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates going up against the College of Saint Benilde Blazers at 5:30 PM.
Aside from Men’s Basketball, viewers will definitely be thrilled with other sporting events this season, including Women’s Volleyball, Cheerleading Competition, Swimming, Track and Field, Juniors' Basketball, Men's Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, Taekwondo, Chess, and the NCAA All-Star Games. Adding more excitement to the new season is the return of Badminton and Table Tennis, and the inclusion of grassroots programs like the Kiddie and 3x3 Basketball.
Kapuso stars on opening day
On Sept. 24, a vibrant and star-studded Sunday afternoon awaits viewers and NCAA enthusiasts for the “NCAA Season 99: New Heroes of the Game Opening Ceremony.”
GMA Synergy Sportscaster Martin Javier and Kapuso actor, triathlete, and host Matteo Guidicelli are hosting the opening ceremony. Joining them are fellow Kapuso stars Arra San Agustin and Faith da Silva.
Set to provide electrifying performances are Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose together with Zephanie, Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Jessica Villarubin, Mariane Osabel, Thea Astley, Lexi Gonzales, Ysabel Ortega, 1st.One, and Jillian Ward. Viewers should also watch out for the special participation of Asia’s Multimedia Star Alden Richards.
Tickets for the Sept. 24 games are available via www.smtickets.com or on-site at the Mall of Asia Arena Ticket Booth.
The NCAA Season 99 action continues as GTV airs the live games on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 2 to 6 PM; Saturdays at 9:30 AM and 3 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM.