Long UAAP offseason up as September start eyed

NATIONAL University may get an extended reign in the UAAP—at least by a few months—as the league looks to move the men’s basketball tournament to September starting next season.

The country’s premier varsity league is set to adjust to the new academic calendar of its member schools by next year, league secretary Rod Roque said.

NOY MORCOSO/INQUIRER.net

The schedule change from the regular July opening to September will lead to a nearly one-year layoff for teams.

The adjustment will also force the league to tweak its eligibility rules.

For the newly crowned Bulldogs, the long offseason may mean basking in their title glory longer after a historic romp that saw them snap a 60-year title drought.

But beefing up their lineup will also be a priority as the Bulldogs are set to lose to graduation this season’s Most Improved Player Troy Rosario and three other big men.

Far Eastern University, which settled for a runner-up finish, also intends to stay as a title contender.

“We’re hoping to be stronger, that’s always the goal,” said FEU coach Nash Racela.

Despite the shift in the sports calendar, the cheerdance competition may be retained in September, but this time as an opening  salvo.