Quezon: San Beda University secured its place in the NCAA Season 101 men's basketball finals, triumphing over College of Saint Benilde (CSB) with a close 84-81 victory in their decisive final four matchup. Graduating forward Yukien Andrada played a pivotal role in the win, showcasing his talent at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Andrada, who will soon join the Philippine Basketball Association as the sixth overall pick in the 2025 draft, scored 27 points and grabbed four rebounds. San Beda coach Yuri Escueta expressed his confidence in Andrada, stating, "I want to give credit to CSB for making their shots but I really just trusted one guy and that's Yukien Andrada." Escueta praised Andrada's readiness to step up in critical moments, despite his usual unselfish play.

Andrada hit a vital three-pointer to level the score at 72 with 6:33 remaining and later scored the basket that pushed San Beda ahead, 81-77, in the closing minutes. Agjanti Miller, returning from a knee injury that sidelined him in Game 2, contributed significantly with 26 points, six rebounds, and two steals. Bryan Sajonia added 10 points, six rebounds, and three assists to the effort.

The Blazers were led by Tony Ynot, who scored 18 points, and was supported by Raffy Celis with 14 points, Ian Torres with 12 points, and Josh Cajucom with 10 points. Allen Liwag, the reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player and a member of the Gilas Pilipinas team competing in the Thailand Southeast Asian Games, added 10 points and eight rebounds.

The best-of-three finals are set to begin on Wednesday at the same venue. Benilde was previously swept by Mapua in the Season 100 finals, while Letran, champions of Seasons 97 and 98, returns to the championship round after a two-season hiatus.