Just a few more weeks before UAAP fever starts again! This time in the spanking new MOA Arena! (exciting)
Judging by their performances in the preseason tournaments, I'd say the top contenders for this season are:
1. Ateneo
2. National University
3. La Salle (surprisingly)
Haven't seen a lot of the games but Ateneo is already a given since they have Greg Slaughter and Kiefer Ravena. They lost key pieces like Emman Monfort and etc. but still have loads of talented players. I believe the Semerad twins from San Beda also transferred to ADMU but will sit out this year because of residency issues.
NU seems to have taken a big leap and have surrounded reigning MVP Bobby Ray Parks Jr. with improved players. They went 8-0 in the Filoil eliminations and I read that they even beat some pro teams in China?! I also read that they got a good scorer from the high school ranks but will also sit out this year. Not sure why tho.
For DLSU, the Jeron Teng pickup is a huge plus. Norbert Torres is averaging a double-double in the Filoil tournament but I hear 6-8 Arnold Van Opstal will not be suiting up this season. I think sharpshooter Joseph Marata will also skip this season?
Lastly, I did not think Jeron Teng's game would translate well in the college scene because he was taller and stronger than all of his opponents in HS. He hasn't put up mind-boggling numbers yet but he is scoring well and I like him already because of that tying three-pointer he hit against Ateneo to force overtime in the Filoil game! Clutch! He looks a lot bulkier than his brother Jeric from UST. Could have the potential to dominate down the road.
