By: Arjohn Roxas
National University’s new head coach DA Olan steps into UAAP Season 88 with the challenge of sustaining a dynasty that has amassed eight championships since 2014.
Olan takes over from Coach of the Year Aris Dimaunahan, who resigned nearly a month before the tournament, and now faces the task of defending the crown in Season 88.
For him, the responsibility is not a burden but a challenge he is ready to embrace.
“Me being bagong pasok na coach, syempre it’s a big pressure talaga — replacing the Coach of the Year and handling a defending champion team,” Olan said. “Pero nagbibigay sa’kin ng confidence ‘yung trust and support ng management, school officials, players, and my coaching staff.”
The Lady Bulldogs aim to extend their dominance in the league, but Olan is aware that the competition is closing in.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a burden, but it’s a challenge. Every year, it’s getting tougher in the women’s division. All teams are leveling up,” Olan added.
“Yes, we are the defending champions, pero we as a team also have to level up our game if we want to still be the champions.”
With only a month of preparation before the season, Olan opted to keep NU’s system intact and leaned on his veterans to carry the leadership mantle.
He still has battle-tested seniors — Tin Cayabyab, Angel Surada, and Ann Pingol — who will help guide him through the transition.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“I challenge our new veterans to help the team perform better and bring out the best in each other,” he said.
Olan also relies on his leaders to guide NU’s rookies — including Gilas girls standouts Sophia Canindo and Sam Medina, who are still adjusting to Philippine basketball — through film sessions and constant communication.
“System-wise, wala kaming masyadong binago. It’s up to us to do our part in defending the crown,” Olan explained.
Beyond the sport, Olan hopes to leave a legacy by helping his players grow into better individuals both on and off the court.
“Yung legacy na gusto kong maiwan is bringing out the best sa aming student-athletes, not just in basketball but in life,” he said.
“We want them to be disciplined and professional as early as now so we prepare them for life after basketball.”
Olan makes his debut with the NU Lady Bulldogs on Saturday, September 27, against the FEU Lady Tamaraws at the Araneta Coliseum.
#WATCH: NU Lady Bulldogs’ new head coach DA Olan opens up about the pressure of inheriting a champion team 🏀🐶
📹 @arjohnroxas_ /Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/5VSBXQkqeW
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 16, 2025
