INQUIRER Sports

QUEZON CITY, Philippines -- The UP Fighting Maroons are counting on new recruits to bolster their chances of having a better season starting July.

?I think we have a very good chance. Maybe, we?ll reach the Final Four. We just have to work hard,? said Maroons shooting guard Mike Silungan.

Forward Woody Co, meanwhile, admitted that since they consider themselves a young team, he and his teammates are still adjusting to each other?s style of play.

On the other hand, rookie Mikee Reyes, who is from La Salle Greenhills, said they find strength in being a team filled with young, aggressive players.

Point guard Arvin Braganza admitted that last year, the team was sorely lacking in height. ?Plus this year we have matured and are more bonded as a team. That?s very important,? he said.

Coach Aboy Castro, meanwhile, said they have six to 10 recruits plucked from different high schools but declined to reveal their identities just yet.

According to him, some of these players are from the provinces and more-renowned schools like San Beda and La Salle Greenhills.

?We just want them to gel with each other first and to have one heart beat for the game,? said Castro, preparing for his second season with the Maroons.

Castro also believes the team?s strength lies in his players? quickness.

?We have the ability to push the ball up the floor but there?s a lack of ceiling. We defend as a team not as individuals,? he said.