Abate Returns for Final Season with UE in UAAP Season 88

John Abate, the experienced UE Red Warriors guard, has confirmed he will use his final year of eligibility and return to play for UE in UAAP Season 88. Abate cited loyalty as the key reason, stating, "UE gave me an opportunity, and I’m going to stick by them because they’re loyal to me. I want to finish my career with them." He is currently in Florida but will return to Manila in February to resume practices. His main goals for the season are to "Win as much as I can" and "Do the best as I can for myself, my team, and the community."

Abate's return occurs while the UE basketball program searches for a new head coach following Jack Santiago's departure. The university has begun interviewing candidates this week, including Chris Gavina, Ariel Vanguardia, Boyzie Zamar, and Josh Reyes. Rain or Shine assistant coach Mike Buendia has also applied, while Eric Altamirano withdrew due to other commitments. Multiple sources indicate Josh Reyes, with his experience coaching Gilas Youth and as an assistant at FEU, is viewed as the frontrunner for the position.

A significant uncertainty for UE heading into Season 88 is the status of foreign student-athlete Precious Momowei, who was pivotal last season. Momowei is reportedly weighing his options amid the uncertainty surrounding UE's coaching direction. Abate's return is seen as a stabilizing force for team leadership during this period.

When asked if he would try to convince Momowei to return, Abate expressed respect for his teammate's decision: "His decision is ultimately what’s best for him. I might text him here and there, but whatever is best for him. That’s my brother on and off the court." With Abate committed and the coaching search nearing its end, UE's offseason is shaping up as a defining period.