REYNALD MAGALLON

Reigning UAAP champion University of the Philippines is set to take its preparation for the upcoming Season 85 a notch higher when it flies to Korea to play a series of tuneup games against professional teams in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).

Program Director Bo Perasol confirmed the development with the Fighting Maroons eye a two-week camp – thanks mainly to the support of JJ Atencio of Januarius Holdings.

Once they get their visa documents, Perasol said their training camp will be on  Aug. 28 to Sept. 10.

UP will test its mettle against Suwon KT Sonicboom, Seoul Samsung Thunders, Changwon LG Sakers, Jeonju KCC Egis and Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus.

The Maroons are also expected to take on some of the familiar faces in the KBL with Filipino imports in the likes of Will Navarro of the Thunders, Justin Gutang of the Sakers and RJ Abrrientos of the Phoebus.

“Mga pro teams ang kalaban namin, kapag wala kaming kalaban magti-train kami. Tune up games, tamang tama din iyon kasi medyo malalakas ‘yon so importante iyon sa preparation namin for the UAAP,” said Perasol.

He also revealed that the overseas training for the Fighting Maroons was initially set in either Australia or Serbia but both were deemed not feasible due to the visa problems and the current situation in Europe.

“Last talaga naming option ang Korea, kasi ang una talaga naming option was to go to Australia, kaya lang medyo matagal yung processing ng visa. Sa Serbia naman, medyo kaunting yung seats kasi medyo magulo dun ngayon dahil sa Ukraine and Russia,” said Perasol.

Perasol added the team is looking at playing at least eight games during the trip as it already brings in the lineup for the upcoming UAAP season bannered by Gilas standout Carl Tamayo, Zav Lucero, JD Cagulangan among others.