MANILA, Philippines - Host University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, their confidence boosted by a successful summer, will kick off action in UAAP Season 78 against University of the East on Sept. 5.
According to the league’s broadcast partner ABS-CBN Sports, the Maroons and the Red Warriors will usher in hostilities at 2 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum following the 1 p.m. opening rites.
The other pairing on Day One will pit University of Santo Tomas against Adamson at 4 p.m.
The Maroons are coming off a title run in the Filsports Basketball Association (FBA) last month, hoping to carry it over to the UAAP wars as they eye a turnaround in the season the university is hosting. The Diliman-based team will parade a new head coach, whom it’s expected to officially name soon, and some prized recruits.
Meanwhile, last year’s Final Four participants, led by titlist National U, will see action on Sept. 6 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bulldogs, who broke a decades-long championship drought in Season 77, will commence their defense against De La Salle Green Archers at 2 p.m., added the report on the ABS-CBN Sports website.
Season 77 losing finalist Far Eastern U Tamaraws, meanwhile, will launch their bid against the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the 4 p.m. second game.
The UAAP is starting its season two months later than usual to adjust to the new academic calendars of member schools.