San Beda Red Lions eye roaring comeback with Yukien Andrada

For San Beda University and its storied basketball history, the return of Yukien Andrada marks more than just another season, it’s a chance to recapture the crown before their veteran goes out on top. 

Andrada, who may have professional ambitions on his horizon, has made it clear that his immediate mission is guiding the Red Lions back to the throne in NCAA Season 101.

The journey last year ended in heartbreak. San Beda’s title defense was cut short in the Final Four by a formidable Benilde squad, extinguishing hopes of consecutive banners. That loss has become fuel rather than setback, and this time around the Lions intend to roar louder.

Andrada isn’t alone. Returning holdovers Jomel Puno, Bismarck Lina, and Penny Estacio, along with Nygel Gonzales, form the experienced core that will support him. 

The roster also brings back Bryan Sajonia, RC Calimag, Joe Celzo, JC Bonzalida, and Menard Songcuya, ensuring depth and continuity even as the team moves on from James Payosing, who transferred to the UAAP’s UP program.

To supplement its veteran firepower, San Beda has added Agjanti Miller and MJ Vailoces to the fold. Rounding out the squad are Ismael Culdora, Zedljay Etulle, Kyle Jamora, Jimuel Reyes, and Ron Tolentino—young talent and role players primed to rise under pressure.

San Beda enters Season 101 with a renewed intensity, anchored by a veteran leader in Andrada and a supporting cast determined to restore the Red Lions’ dominance.

Placed in Group B under the new format—facing off with Letran, Benilde, JRU, and Emilion Aguinald College—San Beda knows that advancement is no guarantee, with just three slots opening to the crossover quarterfinals. 

Their strategy will rely heavily on the stability and leadership of Andrada, Puno, Lina, and Estacio, who must not only deliver on the stat sheet but also steady the team in high-pressure moments. 

The newcomers, Miller, Vailoces, and the younger role players, must rise quickly, absorb the system, and contribute consistently. San Beda will lean on defense, physicality, and smart rotations to offset its vulnerabilities, particularly in depth and youth. 

But with a loaded group and expectations high, they will need to adapt fast, stay composed in tight games, and outperform teams that expect to dominate. 

If they can strike the balance between experience and rising talent, the Red Lions could well roar back into title contention.