UP looks to improve as key players graduate

THE ERA of Mike Silungan passed by uneventfully for the University of the Philippines. The Maroons figure its time to move on.

The celebrated Fil-Am, along with key player Miggy Maniego, have already used up their playing years, leaving the University of the Philippines with a crack crew that will test its strength in the 2012 Filoil Flying V Pre-Season Hanes Cup.

UP’s future this season will hinge on import Alinko Mbah, who hopes to smooth out the rough edges of his game and finally live up to his potential, and last year’s revelation Jet Manuel. Other holdovers include Gelo Montecastro, Julius Wong and Carlo Gomez.

“We fell short in making the final four but I’m glad that we were able to take that first step. The key for us is the development of our young players as well as getting capable players that can contribute for us,” said coach Ricky Dandan.

UP will also unveil key recruit Henry Asilum of Sacred Heart in Cebu, a member of last year’s national youth squad, in the preseason tournament  presented by Bostik Phils., Inc. in cooperation with Total Phils. Inc and major backers BDO, Bayo and Molten.

The event kicks off April 14 at the Filoil Flying V Arena. It is also backed by Oxycan, Bagoong Club Resto, Union Bank and Bacchus Energy  Drink.

NCAA squads Mapua and College of St. Benilde also hope to test its roster when they compete in the national tournament.

The Cardinals failed to make it to the Final Four despite a capable line-up, and will have to deal with the departure of Allan Mangahas, Jason Pascual, Mark Sarangay and Rodel Ranises.

Mapua will still have talented big man Yousef Taha to lead the team.

Carlo Lastimosa, meanwhile, is expected to banner the Blazers’ charge.