UNIVERSITY of the East (UE) head coach Chris Gavina is reportedly facing an uncertain future after the Red Warriors opened the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament with back-to-back defeats.
According to Fastbreak columnist Homer Sayson, a source told him that Gavina could be removed from his post as early as this weekend.
Gavina has yet to record a victory since taking over the UE program in February 2025, with his tenure reportedly standing at 0-16.
His struggles have also extended beyond the UAAP, with his overall coaching record in other leagues also coming under scrutiny as UE continues to search for a breakthrough under his leadership.
Gavina’s situation, however, reportedly cannot be attributed entirely to his coaching. Sayson reported that the UE program has not received sufficient financial backing from the school and its main sponsor, Tanduay, affecting the Red Warriors’ ability to assemble and maintain a competitive roster.
The Red Warriors also lost several key players, including Precious Momowei, Nico Mulintapang and Dylan Despi, further weakening the team heading into Season 89.
Adding to the concern, a core of players who previously suited up for UE is now playing for the University of the Philippines, including Rey Remogat, Isagani Stevens and Reiner Maga.
Gavina’s one-year contract renewal reportedly includes an early termination clause, giving UE the option to make a coaching change before the agreement expires.
Former PBA star and Philippine basketball legend Allan Caidic has also emerged as a reported candidate to replace Gavina, although no coaching change has been officially announced by UE.
The Red Warriors opened Season 89 with a 101-74 loss to Ateneo de Manila University before suffering another setback against National University, 76-56, to fall to 0-2.
The two defeats extended UE’s difficult stretch in the UAAP, where the Red Warriors have been trying to return to the Final Four for the first time since 2009. (By the Staff)
