FILE–Lyceum Pirates vs St. Benilde Blazers. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—A new league rule for NCAA Season 99 indicated that there will now be a battle for third place for virtually all of its events.
According to league management committee chairman Paul Supan, the NCAA will have a rubber match between the two runner-ups from the Final Four to determine a third placer beginning this season.
“There’s a battle for third in all events… Every sport except swimming and track and field, there will be third place plaques,” said Supan in a statement.
It was included in the proposed improvements this season that was approved by the policy board.”
The new rule was already implemented in the taekwondo, badminton and chess events that ended a month ago.
Now, in the case of the men’s basketball tournament, Lyceum and College of St. Benilde will clash to determine a third placer.
Most recently on Friday, the Pirates were relegated to a battle for third after fumbling their twice-to-beat advantage to San Beda, which is returning to the Finals since 2019.
Mapua outgunned the Blazers on Wednesday, 78-67. The upcoming battle for third can give a more proper send-off to graduating players Will Gozum, Robi Nayve and Miggy Corteza.
Lyceum and Benilde will clash on December 10 in Game 2 of the Finals between Mapua and San Beda at Mall of Asia Arena.