Last year, University of the Philippines turned heads by sporting blonde hair as a symbol of the women’s basketball team’s commitment and determination to revive the team’s former glory.
This bold move paid off, as the Fighting Maroons made it to the Final Four for the first time in 15 years.
This season, the tradition continues, but with an added twist. Not only are the players sporting blonde hair, but so are the coaches and interns.
This gesture is more than just a new look; it’s a statement of unity and resolve, especially in the face of challenges, such as the absence of reigning Rookie of the Year Favour Onoh due to an ACL injury.
Following a decisive 67-43 victory over the University of the East, marking their first win of Season 87, UP Fighting Maroons head coach Paul Ramos explained the reasoning behind the coaches’ move to join on the ‘Fighting Blondes’ movement.
“The coaches have decided that we felt coming into the season, we needed to put the team into a better position where we’ll have an environment that is very inspirational,” UP’s debonair mentor Ramos revealed.
“This season, I think it’s necessary for us to show united and really get all the small pieces and small things get going so that during the season, nothing is left behind.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
After a setback in their season opener against Ateneo de Manila University, UP demonstrated their championship potential even without Onoh.
They showcased a balanced attack, sending the Lady Warriors to their 39th consecutive defeat.
Third-year forward Achrissa Maw led the Fighting Maroons with a standout performance, contributing 18 points on an impressive 83.3 percent shooting clip, six rebounds, and one steal.
For Maw, the commitment of their coaches to join the blonde brigade was a significant source of motivation.
“Nung nakita ko sila coach Paul na nagpakulay, sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam kasi doon pa lang, kahit wala silang sabihin, mensahe na ‘yon na as one talaga yung namin,” the standout from De La Salle-Zobel shared.
“Hindi namin kailangan sila pilitin, sila na mismo yung nagkusa para mapakita yung togetherness as a team.”
