Metro Manila, Philippines — Host University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons and Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles will rekindle their rivalry in the opening match of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 men’s basketball tournament on Sept. 7 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The Fighting Maroons, headlined by JD Cagulangan, Francis Lopez, Gery Abadiano, and Harold Alarcon, will attempt to get over the hump following back-to-back runner-up finishes.
On the other hand, a new era dawns in the Blue Eagles’ nest as a young core, which includes prized high school recruit Jared Bahay, will aim to make a surprise in the new season.
Bahay chose to continue representing Ateneo after initially committing to UP as its lead guard of the future. The 19-year-old finished his final playing year in Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in the CESAFI juniors and decided to join Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City.
Returning for the Fighting Maroons are Terrence Fortea, Janjan Felicilda, Reyland Torres, Chicco Briones, and Mark Belmonte.
Filipino-American Quentin Millora-Brown will bolster the UP’s frontline alongside Sean Alter, Gani Stevens, and Nigerian Dikachi Ududo, with rookie Jacob Bayla ready to showcase his talent.
With the departure of Kai Ballungay and Geo Chiu plus Mason Amos transferring to De La Salle University, Ateneo will be parading a unit that features Sean Quitevis, Chris Koon, Josh Lazaro, and Ian Espinosa.
Kristian Porter and Femi Edu are also expected to have productive minutes for the Tab Baldwin-mentored Blue Eagles.
Game time is at 6:30 p.m.
LOOK: UAAP releases its first round schedule for the juniors, women's, and men's basketball in Season 87 | @cjmarquez_ pic.twitter.com/kiRrBlBMQB
— NewsWatch Plus PH (@newswatchplusph) September 4, 2024
