ST. CLARE College starts its title-retention bid against last year’s losing finalist Centro Escolar even as four other teams launch their respective campaigns today at the start of the National Athletics Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (Naascu) basketball tournament at Makati Coliseum.
With a revamped lineup following the graduation of several stalwarts, the Saints face an uphill battle against the Scorpions in the rematch between last year’s finalist at 10 a.m.
“We are ready to defend the championship but I understand the other teams have also prepared well during the offseason,” said Naascu chair and St. Clare president Dr. Ernest Jay Adalem Jr.
Appearing as guests of honor during the opening ceremony at 8 a.m. are Philippine Olympic Committee secretary general Steve Hontiveros, businessman-sports patron Alex Wang and former PBA superstar Vergel Meneses.
Highlighting the rites is the coronation of this year’s Mr. and Ms. Naascu.
The event will also coincide with the oath-taking of the new set of officers led by Adalem as chair, Dr. Vic Santos president, Neth Alamillo vice president, Pepe Sanchez secretary general, Dr. Ray Miradora treasurer and Jerry Villanueva auditor.
Host Our Lady of Fatima University battles City University of Pasay at 11:30 a.m., while newcomer Rizal Technological University faces New Era at 1 p.m.