After winning their second consecutive title in the FilOil EcoOil ECJ Preseason Cup, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons are gearing up to apply the lessons learned in the upcoming UAAP season.
In a thrilling rematch of last season’s FilOil championship, UP staged a comeback from a 20-point deficit to edge out the reigning UAAP champions La Salle Green Archers, 69-66, on Wednesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Following the game, UP’s Gerry Abadiano emphasized the importance of the team’s learnings from the tournament, noting that they intend to carry those lessons into the approaching UAAP season. The sharpshooter, who contributed 12 points in the title-sealing game, expressed his team’s commitment to continuous improvement.
With changes in both teams’ rosters, the FilOil competitions serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming UAAP Season 87, where UP remains a top contender for the championship title. Abadiano highlighted the team’s overseas training plans and stressed the need for enhanced consistency heading into the new season, which kicks off in September.
Fellow Maroons player Francis Lopez echoed Abadiano’s sentiments on the importance of maintaining consistency in performance, particularly during challenging moments. The team’s dominant run in the FilOil tourney, where they emerged victorious in all their matchups, has further fueled their motivation to fine-tune their skills for the challenges ahead.
