The University Athletic Association of the Philippines announced on Saturday that they are retaining the trio of Xavy Nunag, Mariana Lopa, and Marvin Bienvenida as the people tasked to oversee the basketball tournament for the upcoming 87th season of the league.
For Nunag, this would be his third straight season as the league's commissioner, with Lopa and Bienvenida in a deputy capacity and overseeing the women's and high school tournaments.
Also returning and assisting the three are Michael Villar and Lance Mandalano, who will act as the media consultant and admin personnel for the office.
Upon being re-appointed to the post, Nunag says, "Our primary objective is to continue raising the standards of amateur basketball. We aim not just to uphold the quality of play but also to enhance the caliber of our referees. By doing so, we ensure that every game is officiated with the highest standards, contributing to the overall growth of the sport in the country."
Preparations for 87th season have been in place since July with a more pro-active approach. The office has had visits to all eight member-schools to address concerns directly from the coaches. They have also have sent referees to officiate the friendlies and scrimmages that member schools organized in the run-up to the start of the season, which is on September 7.
Nunag adds, "This initiative is crucial not only for our coaches but also for our student-athletes. By allowing them to experience firsthand how games will be called this season, we help them adapt and prepare better."
The office will be busy with the sport in its different classifications all season, with the success of the inaugural edition of the junior high school (under-16) tournament earlier this year seeing them now take place alongside the collegiate basketball matches during in the first semester.
Bienvenida says about the JHS division, "Following the success of last season’s 16-under tournament, I’m thrilled that the boys will have the chance to play in big venues from a young age. This experience is invaluable for their development as players, giving them a taste of the big stage and preparing them for the next level."
The second semester will add the return of the high school girls division, which will coincide with their boys counterparts.
Lopa says about this particular development: "I am excited that girls’ basketball is making its comeback. This is an excellent opportunity for young female student-athletes to grow and develop their skills before progressing to the collegiate level. It’s a positive step forward for women’s sports within the UAAP."
Capping off the basketball portion of Season 87 is the 3x3 competition, which is currently scheduled to take place in May next year.
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