The NCAA North Low-Land Division officially opened its inaugural season in dominant and dramatic fashion, highlighted by a pair of commanding wins from Cordillera Career Development College and a thrilling escape by Centro Escolar University Malolos.
Playing under the banner “Rise of the North: Forged in the Lowlands,” CCDC set the tone early, dismantling PIMSAT Colleges, Inc., 114-64, before following it up with another convincing 110-72 victory over STI College Balagtas to complete a perfect opening day.
Meanwhile, CEU Malolos figured in the most competitive game of the day, narrowly edging DPR Aviation College, 87-84, in a tightly contested battle that went down to the final possessions.
AMA University also made its presence felt, cruising to an 84-67 win over PHILCST to round out the opening day results.
But beyond the scores, the bigger picture of the league’s launch centered on opportunity.
For Cris Bautista, the successful opening of the Low-Land Division represents a crucial step in expanding access and exposure for emerging talents—particularly those outside the traditional basketball hotspots.
He emphasized that the league creates visibility for players who are often overlooked, allowing scouts and coaches to identify talent in areas that are usually “hidden.”
“There, it’s a bit hidden. They can see players there. Even if coaches don’t go there initially, once they watch, that’s the time they go there to talk to the kids,” he added.
Bautista also highlighted the long-term goal of NCAA North not just to stage games, but to build a legitimate pathway for athletes aiming to reach the professional ranks.
With dominant performances, a thrilling finish, and a clear developmental vision, the NCAA North Low-Land Division opened its first season with both impact and purpose signaling a new avenue for grassroots talent to rise. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
