University of the East has stockpiled recruits, not just for UAAP Season 87 but also for its future.
Headlining the class of new Red Warriors are three second-generation cagers, namely Mur Alao and the Duremdes brothers, Kenji and Kylle Magdangal.
Alao, 20, studied and played for De La Salle University from 2022 to 2024.
Though he did not play in the UAAP, the 6-foot-2 guard from San Beda-Rizal was instrumental in leading the Green Archers to the top in the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.
Alao averaged 6.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game.
He still has four years of eligibility left.
Meanwhile, brothers Kenji and Kylle have moved out of the Tigers’ den and headed over to Recto.
Kenji, who stands at 6-foot-2, averaged 4.07 points and 3.64 rebounds. Meanwhile, Kylle played in nine games for the Growling Tigers in UAAP Season 86.
The trio will have to sit out one year before being eligible for Season 88.
Also transferring to UE is a ready-to-play standout from Enderun Colleges.
Marlon Mahilum, a 6-foot-3 winger, will be eligible to play immediately for UE come Season 87.
Alao and Mahilum are both represented by Phenom Sports Management.
This development is a welcome one for Jack Santiago’s program which has been battered by departures over the last three years, including Rey Romagat during the off-season.