Manila’s hoops fans still buzz about the PinoyLiga Next Man Cup 2025, Season 3—a raw showcase where UAAP and NCAA benchwarmers and Team B gunslingers proved they’re ready for prime time. From February tip-offs to that unforgettable May finale, it packed Enderun Colleges gym with drama that felt like the big leagues.
On May 4, 2025, in Taguig City, Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals pulled off the upset of the year, edging College of St. Benilde (CSB) Blazers 95-93 in overtime. Marvin James Raymundo owned the moment: his regulation jumper at 19 seconds tied it 86-all, forcing extras, then his go-ahead basket at 13.2 seconds left made it 95-93—CSB turned it over with 1.2 ticks to seal EAC’s glory.
Finals MVP EJ Castillo carried EAC with 24 points on 9-of-17 shooting, shouting out his juniors coaches from the Brigadiers for the trust; Joshua Tolentino added 19, Ruzzelle Dominguez 13, and Raymundo 10. CSB, perfect at 5-0 in prelims before cruising past New Era University Hunters and Enderun Titans in playoffs, got 15 from Ian Torres, 12 each from SJ Moore and Ernest Daja, and 10 apiece from Raffy Celis and Jake Gaspay—who missed a regulation game-winner.
The 12-team draw mixed NCAA and UAAP firepower: EAC, CSB, Lyceum, Mapua, San Beda, San Sebastian, UP Team B, UE, Ateneo, Adamson, UST, plus NEU and Enderun, with South Korea’s U-League guests Korea University and Sangmyung University adding edge. Semis saw EAC stun DLSU Green Archers 86-83, ending their streak, while early gems like DLSU’s 82-67 rout of Ateneo—sparked by Mason Amos and Jacob Cortez—hinted at Team A futures.
Scouts couldn’t stop talking Castillo’s clutch gene and Torres’ leadership—prime picks for NCAA Season 101 and UAAP Season 88. Tournament Director Benny Benitez summed it up: games here turn promise into proof. Since 2022, it’s leveled the court for hidden gems, fueling Pinoy basketball’s next wave.
2026 brings regional qualifiers and youth action beyond Metro Manila. Follow Midori Sports News for player interviews, breakdowns, and all the courtside fire straight from the Philippines.
