THE University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons are keeping their championship aspirations alive as they prepare for another run in UAAP Season 89.
After finishing as runners-up once again last season, UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon said the Maroons are not looking for drastic changes in their approach. Instead, the focus remains on preparation, competitiveness and continued growth throughout the season.
“Adjustment? Nothing in particular. In terms of approach, it remains the same. In terms of still being competitive, thriving sa preparations namin,” Luanzon said.
The coaching staff is placing emphasis on both the physical and mental preparation of the players, with the team aiming to stay locked in on the details that can determine the outcome of each game.
“For us, it’s always about each possession which will lead to per game,” Luanzon added.
Rather than becoming complacent after another deep postseason run, UP wants to treat the new campaign as another opportunity to improve.
Luanzon said head coach Goldwin Monteverde continues to remind the players that their development does not stop once the season begins.
“Coach Gold would always remind the players once the season starts, it’s not the end of our growth as a team. So, it’s always a process,” he said.
The Maroons also recognize that another long campaign could bring different challenges, regardless of whether those moments come in the form of wins or losses.
“What’s important is that no matter what challenges that will present itself, whether it’s winning or losing, we stick together as a team,” Luanzon said.
UP is coming off another close championship chase, and the lessons from that experience are expected to fuel its latest bid to return to the finals and finally finish the job.
Beyond the court, Luanzon also highlighted the importance of the UP community, whose support has remained strong both during the season and in the offseason.
“To the UP community at sa lahat ng mga sumusuporta, maraming-maraming salamat sa undying support ninyo whether it’s in-season or off-season,” he said.
That support has followed the Maroons even outside the Philippines, with UP fans turning up during the team’s trip to China.
For UP, the goal remains the same: stay together, continue improving and be ready for every challenge on the way to another championship opportunity. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
