College of Saint Benilde Blazing Spikers captured the NCAA Season 101 men’s volleyball championship after defeating Mapua University Cardinals in the winner-take-all Game 3 on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The Blazing Spikers sealed the title in straight sets, 25-23, 25-18, 25-21, to clinch the best-of-three finals series, 2-1, and end a nine-year championship drought.
Reymark Betco delivered a standout performance to earn Finals Most Valuable Player honors, leading Benilde’s charge in the decisive match.
Head coach Arnold Laniog, who steered the Taft-based squad throughout the season, was also recognized as Coach of the Year.
After dropping the opening game in the series, CSB bounced back with a composed and dominant showing in Games 2 and 3, controlling the tempo and capitalizing on key moments to keep Mapua at bay.
The Cardinals, who finished as runners-up, struggled to sustain momentum against Benilde’s consistent offense and disciplined defense in the clincher.
The championship marks a significant milestone for the Blazing Spikers, highlighting their resurgence as a contender in NCAA men’s volleyball and capping off a strong campaign under Laniog’s leadership. (AC)
