As University of the Philippines ramps up its preparations for a redemption campaign in UAAP Season 89, it is also laying the foundation for its future.
The Fighting Maroons have secured the commitment of Fil-Canadian guard Irish Coquia, with the former U.S. NCAA Division I talent set to bolster their backcourt beginning in Season 90.
Coquia is a 6-foot-1 playmaker who most recently suited up for the University of New Orleans after a standout stint with NCAA Division II program Simon Fraser University.
Before his collegiate career, he established himself as one of British Columbia’s top high school players, averaging 35 points per game while leading his team to a provincial championship and earning MVP honors.
Set to turn 21 in September, Coquia will undergo the mandatory one-year residency before becoming eligible for two seasons with UP.
His arrival comes as UP begins preparing for a transition in its backcourt, with veterans Rey Remogat and Rain Maga expected to exhaust their eligibility after Season 89.
Following a year of development within the program, Coquia is expected to join forces with Fil-Am guard Joaquin Tovera to lead the Fighting Maroons’ next generation in the backcourt.
“Together with our other recruits, makakatulong si Irish sa atin, especially to ensure na tuloy-tuloy lang tayo pagkatapos ng playing years nina Rey at Rain,” said head coach Goldwin Monteverde.
The commitment also marks a homecoming of sorts, as Coquia traces his roots to Dagupan City, Pangasinan. His uncle, multidisciplinary communicator Rex Laguerta, also studied at UP Open University from 2019 to 2024.
The Fighting Maroons are in the midst of one of the most successful stretches in program history, having reached five consecutive UAAP Finals appearances, highlighted by championship victories in Seasons 84 and 87.
