NCAA tunes in to old TV ally for Season 91
THE NATIONAL Collegiate Athletic Association has reunited with ABS-CBN as its television partner starting the league’s 91st season, which kicks on June 27 at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
The league signed a 10-year television deal with the network, after the contract with its erstwhile TV partner, TV5, ended in Season 90.
The financial details of the deal were not disclosed, although sources said it was worth at least P20 million a season.
“We were looking for a long-term partnership focusing on developing the NCAA as a brand,” said Vincent Fabella, the Jose Rizal U representative of the league’s policy board, during the launch of the partnership yesterday. “When ABS-CBN presented their proposal to us, they took that idea to heart and the board appreciated it.”
“We are glad that we share the same vision as the NCAA in growing their brand and promoting sports,” ABS-CBN integrated sports head Dino Laurena said.
“We are excited at the prospect of now handling the premier collegiate leagues in the country which is in line with our vision to help promote sports to our audience.”
The league has also elevated Lyceum and Emilio Aguinaldo College as regular members, after spending the last five years as probationary members.
The season begins with reigning seniors champion San Beda facing host Mapua and last year’s second and third placers Arellano University and Jose Rizal clashing in the other game.
League management committee chair Melchor Divina of Mapua said they have rescheduled the games from Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays to Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with a total of seven seniors games to be played every week.
For the complete collegiate sports coverage including scores, schedules and stories, visit Inquirer Varsity.
