Xavy Nunag, Mariana Lopa, and Marvin Bienvenida are set to return to the UAAP, continuing their roles as key figures in the UAAP Basketball Commissioners’ Office for the 87th season of the league.
This marks the third consecutive season for Nunag as the UAAP Basketball Commissioner, while Lopa and Bienvenida will serve as deputies overseeing the women’s and high school basketball tournaments, respectively.
Michael Villar and Lance Mandalano will also continue to serve as the media consultant and admin personnel for the office.
“Our primary objective is to continue raising the standards of amateur basketball,” said Commissioner Xavy Nunag. “We aim not just to uphold the quality of play but also to enhance the caliber of our referees. By doing so, we ensure that every game is officiated with the highest standards, contributing to the overall growth of the sport in the country.”
The commissioners, alongside the league’s referees, have wasted no time preparing for the upcoming season, starting their work two months ahead of the season’s opening.
This proactive approach included visits to each university to address coaches’ concerns directly and sending referees to officiate tune-up games and scrimmages at various schools.
“This initiative is crucial not only for our coaches but also for our student-athletes,” added Nunag. “By allowing them to experience firsthand how games will be called this season, we help them adapt and prepare better.”
This season will be particularly busy for the Basketball Commissioners’ Office, with a packed schedule planned for both semesters.
In the first semester, the junior high school boys’ (16-under) tournament will take place before the collegiate basketball games, providing young student-athletes with early exposure to high-level competition.
(C) Julius Domondon/UAAP Season 86 Media Team
“Following the success of last season’s 16-under tournament, I’m thrilled that the boys will have the chance to play in big venues from a young age,” said Deputy Commissioner Marvin Bienvenida. “This experience is invaluable for their development as players, giving them a taste of the big stage and preparing them for the next level.”
Meanwhile, the high school girls’ basketball tournament is set to make a much-anticipated return after a five-year hiatus and will be held alongside the boys’ tournament in the second semester.
“I am excited that girls’ basketball is making its comeback,” stated Deputy Commissioner Mariana Lopa. “This is an excellent opportunity for young female student-athletes to grow and develop their skills before progressing to the collegiate level. It’s a positive step forward for women’s sports within the UAAP.”
The season will conclude with the 3×3 basketball tournaments in May, capping off what promises to be an exciting year for UAAP basketball.
