Zavier Lucero picks up where he left off in return to action for UP

FILE–UP’s Zavier Lucero. UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–It’s all been business for University of the Philippines’ Zavier Lucero since arriving back in the Philippines recently.

After the Fighting Maroons clinching the UAAP Season 84 championship against Ateneo last May, Lucero flew to California to spend time with his family.

His first duty back in the country? Contribute to UP’s convincing 117-61 win against the College of St. Benilde.

“It’s good I got to celebrate the championship, but it’s good to be back,” Lucero said after the game.

“Last season is in the rear view mirror so it’s time to start focusing [again].”

The forward tallied 11 points and four boards in the blowout. He averaged 12.8 points and eight rebounds last Season 84 for UP.

“It was vacation but training didn’t stop [for me] I was participating and playing with taller guys,” he said.

The 6-foot-7 swingman was also offered to play in Taiwan soon after the Maroons’ title run in Season 84, but was quick to refuse them to pursue his last playing year for UP.

Lucero will be an important piece in UP’s bid for back-to-back championships next season with fellow big Carl Tamayo and floor general JD Cagulangan.