Mapua Red Robins cement legacy after claiming NCAA 94 crown

Mapúa University Red Robins continue to display their dominance in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) after winning the Season 94’s juniors basketball championship, making them as one of the most successful teams in league history.
The Red Robins, Mapúa’s juniors basketball team, reclaimed the NCAA crown after dethroning the College of Saint Benilde Junior Blazers in Game 3 of the Finals series, 77-74, last November 15 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The NCAA Season 94 crown is the team’s second championship in the last three seasons and its 22nd title overall, making Mapúa as one of the winningest team in the juniors division. It is also the second championship for the Mapúa Red Robins in 2018, after securing back-to-back titles in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup.
Carl Hernandez was declared Finals Most Valuable Player after leading the team to the championship with his career-high 33 points and 12 rebounds. Hernandez and Dan Arches, who chipped 22 points and five rebounds, stepped up for the team in absence of the injured Clint Escamis, team captain and one of the team’s leading scorer.
“I am very happy. We lacked manpower but we were able to maintain that kind of intensity and energy. I would like to give credit to my players,” Head Coach Randy Alcantara told reporters.
In addition to the title, two Mapúa players also won awards for their outstanding individual performances. Escamis was named as a member of the Mythical Five, while Jonnel Policarpio received the Rookie of the Year award.
With its successful run in the past years, the Mapúa Red Robins have cemented their legacy as one of the best teams in the league. Known for its brand of athletic excellence, Mapúa vows to keep its winning tradition alive and continue developing well-rounded athletes in the years to come.
Photo courtesy of Marc Conrad Reyes