THE University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) opened Season 86 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.
In his remarks, University of the East President Dr. Zosimo Battad said this marked the beginning of a new chapter for the student-athletes.
“The purpose of this gathering is much-anticipated because it provides a colossal stage where many of the best Filipino athletes can showcase their talents and abilities,” Battad said as UE hosts the UAAP season for the tenth time.
In keeping with the season’s theme, “Fueling the Future,” the Red Warriors’ homegrown talents displayed their passion in a modern ballet performance titled “Panunumbalik sa Sinimulan,” choreographed by Gener Caringal.
There were performances as well from the UE Silanganan Dance Troupe, the UE Pep Squad, the UE Drama Company, and the UE men’s volleyball team.
The UE men’s basketball team captain – Abdul Sawat – led the Athlete’s Oath.
UE Red Warriors vs. UST Growling Tigers
Photo Courtesy: Ryan Baldemor
After the program, the UE Red Warriors defeated the UST Growling Tigers, 80-70, in the men’s basketball tournament opener.
The Red Warriors jumped out to an 8-0 lead over the Growling Tigers, led by Rey Remogat and captain Abdul Sawat.
UST went on an 8-0 run before the end of the first quarter, trimming the score to 22-18 at the two-minute mark.
The second quarter, however, proved pivotal for the Red Warriors, as they created a two-digit advantage that forced the Growling Tigers to chase them throughout the game.
When it appeared that all hope was lost for UST after falling behind by 19 points, 41-60, midway through the third quarter, the Growling Tigers came storming back in the fourth.
With 2:03 left in regulation, they cut a 17-point deficit, 54-71, to only 8, 67-75, thanks to an and-one by Mark Llemit putback.
With 1:19 remaining, Jack Cruz-Durmont made a dagger three-pointer, taking the life out of the Tigers.
Mini runs by both teams influenced the entire game. UST had their runs, but UE was able to remain calm and respond with their own.
Remogat had 21 points, 10 assists, and three steals in the game. He is now regarded as the Red Warriors’ new leader.
In an interview, Remogat stated, “Lagi ko lang sinusunod ‘yong sinasabi ni Coach Jack, kung paano ko dapat gawin yong mga dapat kong gawin para sa team.”
“Lagi kong sinasabi sakanya na this will be a big season for him,” said coach Jack Santiago.
“Right now siya talaga ‘yong face ng team. Lagi ko lang pine-preach sakanya na it’s not only points, but how to manage the rest of the team, and he responded well,” he added.
In addition to the explosive point guard, Precious Momowei made a strong debut with a 17-point, 15-rebound double-double. Cruz-Dumont added 16 points and seven rebounds, and UE captain Abdul Sawat chipped in 15 points.
NU Bulldogs vs. ADMU Blue Eagles
Photo Courtesy: Ryan Baldemor
In the second game, National University struck Ateneo de Manila University with an early punch in the latter’s title defense bid, 77-64.
This was the Blue Eagles’ first opening-day loss since Season 81, when they were upset 70-74 by Adamson University on September 9, 2018.
The NU was on the attack right away as Jake Figueroa scored the first two points on a layup. He then added an and-one and another basket to make the score 15-9.
Sean Quitevis started the second quarter with a steal and a breakaway basket, followed by Gab Gomez’s back-to-back threes to cut the advantage to two.
NU never looked back after that, as they continued their hot shooting and dogged defense until the second half to record a statement win against the defending champions.
However, NU coach Jeff Napa believes, “Siguro nakachamba kami against a stronger team. We now shift our focus to FEU. Itong panalong ito wala namang silbi ito, it’s just a win.”
“Sa akin, feel ko pa lang paggising ko kaninang umaga, alam ko mananalo na kami. Ganun yung kumpyansa na binibigay sa amin ni Coach Jeff,” said the ever-confident Kean Baclaan, who finished with 4 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds.
Patrick Yu led the Bulldogs’ balanced scoring with 12 points while Steve Nash Enriquez chipped in 10 points.
Aside from them, eight other NU players scored at least four points, including Kenshin Padrones, who had nine, Manansala, who had eight, and Omar John, who had seven.
