As I sit down to analyze the upcoming UAAP Season 85 basketball tournament, I can't help but feel that familiar mix of anticipation and nostalgia. Having covered collegiate basketball for over a decade, I've witnessed how these games become more than just athletic competitions—they transform into cultural phenomena that capture the nation's imagination. This season promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in what has become one of the most exciting basketball landscapes in Southeast Asia.
The rivalry between La Salle and Ateneo continues to be the centerpiece of the UAAP narrative, and frankly, it's what makes covering these games so special. I remember talking to a veteran player last season who perfectly captured the essence of this matchup when he said, "It's just another game for me, really. Rivalries are that, but this is more than me. It's La Salle against Ateneo." That statement has stuck with me because it reveals how these institutions understand that they're playing for something larger than individual glory. The Green Archers enter this season with what I believe is their most promising roster in recent years, led by Evan Nelle who averaged 12.8 points and 6.4 assists last season. Their recruitment has been particularly impressive, securing commitments from at least three highly-touted high school prospects who could make immediate impacts. Meanwhile, the Blue Eagles are coming off back-to-back championships and return with what looks like another championship-caliber squad. Having watched them during preseason, their ball movement remains exceptional, and their defensive rotations are already at mid-season form.
Looking beyond the traditional powerhouses, I'm particularly excited about the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. Their championship run last season wasn't just a fluke—it represented a fundamental shift in the league's competitive balance. With reigning MVP Malick Diouf returning alongside JD Cagulangan, who hit that legendary game-winning three-pointer in the finals, UP has established itself as a legitimate title contender. Their games averaged 12,456 spectators last season, reflecting their growing fanbase. What impresses me most about UP is how they've built their program—focusing on player development rather than just relying on recruitment. The National University Bulldogs can't be overlooked either, especially with their dominant big man Omar John, who recorded 14 double-doubles last season. Their style might not be the most aesthetically pleasing to watch, but their physicality makes them a nightmare matchup for any team.
The schedule itself tells an interesting story about the league's priorities. The opening weekend features Ateneo versus UP on October 1 at the Mall of Asia Arena, followed by La Salle facing University of Santo Tomas the next day. These marquee matchups are strategically placed to maximize viewership, and I've noticed the league has become much smarter about scheduling rivalries during peak viewing periods. There are approximately 56 elimination round games scheduled across 14 weeks, with each team playing 14 games. What many casual fans might not realize is how grueling this schedule can be for student-athletes who are balancing academics with high-level competition. From my conversations with players, the back-to-back games during mid-season are particularly challenging, both physically and mentally.
From a tactical perspective, I'm seeing teams adapt more progressive offensive schemes. The traditional isolation-heavy approach is gradually being replaced by more motion-oriented systems, with Ateneo and UP leading this evolution. Last season, Ateneo averaged 28.4 assists per game—a significant increase from the 22.6 they averaged just three seasons ago. This isn't just a statistical anomaly; it represents a philosophical shift in how coaches are approaching the game. The three-point shot has become increasingly important too, with teams attempting an average of 24.3 three-pointers per game last season compared to just 18.7 five years ago. Personally, I love this evolution—it makes for more exciting basketball and rewards skill development over pure athleticism.
The player development stories are what truly fascinate me about covering collegiate basketball. Watching athletes like UP's Terrence Fortea transform from raw recruits into polished contributors demonstrates the quality of coaching in the league. I've had the privilege of watching Fortea's development closely, and his improvement in decision-making has been remarkable—his assist-to-turnover ratio improved from 1.2 to 2.4 between his rookie and sophomore seasons. Similarly, La Salle's Mike Phillips has developed into one of the league's most versatile big men, expanding his game beyond just rebounding and interior defense. These individual progressions often get overlooked in favor of the headline-grabbing stars, but they're essential to understanding team success.
As we approach tip-off, my prediction is that this will be one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. While I have my personal favorites (I've always had a soft spot for underdog stories, which makes me root for University of the East's redemption arc), the reality is that at least four teams have legitimate championship aspirations. The beauty of collegiate sports lies in its unpredictability—a single injury, a breakout performance from an unexpected player, or even just the bounce of the ball can completely alter a team's destiny. Having covered this league through its various eras, what continues to impress me is how each season develops its own unique narrative, with new heroes emerging and traditional powers being challenged. The stage is set for another unforgettable season of UAAP basketball, where young athletes will compete not just for trophies, but for their place in the rich tapestry of Philippine collegiate sports history.