Let’s not say this is the year UP will finally realize their potential after a good showing in the preseason circuit. It just jinxes their campaign. The Maroons can only improve upon their play last year, which was really promising. But again, as with NU, this is UP. They will find a way to mess up a dark horse tag. Mike Silungan is in his final year of duty and it’s about time he delivers. Who would not want to go out with a bang? He will team up once more with Mike Gamboa, Mikee Reyes, Paolo Romero and Carlo Gomez to try and give UP a Final Four appearance. Alinko Mbah should have figured out by now that his job is to rebound and block and not to dribble out the clock, spending his time up top. Of the impressive recruiting class UP pulled off in 2007, which Mike Gamboa is the only survivng member, there was nothing they could’ve done better. Salvaging the UP pride is the only thing left going for Gamboa who bolted the Blue Eagle camp in expense of playing time. Silungan should take things seriously now and not just rely on his absurd range which, while shooting straight and true, does not guarantee that the ball will fall through the net everytime. Romero and Gomez should provide the inside punch UP sorely needs, although the bet is Romero will be eating the playing time for his improved play both in and out.