Monteverde keeps UP focused on progress over another Filoil crown

San Miguel clinched the PBA championship, defeating TNT and thereby preventing TNT from achieving a Grand Slam. Following this victory, June Mar Fajardo, a key player for San Miguel, has now set his sights on winning the rare PBA Grand Slam. Teammate Jericho Cruz, credited with turning his career around at San Miguel, silenced doubters by earning his first PBA Finals MVP award.

In collegiate basketball tournaments, Adamson University outlasted the University of Santo Tomas (UST) to capture the Asiabasket International crown after both teams reached the final clash. UST will also represent the Philippines in the 18-under Babe Ruth World Series.

In the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, the University of the Philippines (UP), led by coach Goldwin Monteverde who emphasized progress over repeating as champion, secured a top seed alongside La Salle, UST, and National University (NU) after all four swept their NCAA opponents in the quarterfinals. La Salle secured the top seed by defeating UST, while UP gained momentum heading into the quarters. NU, under coach Jeff Napa who kept the team focused amidst distractions, overcame challenges in their own quest for the Filoil title.

Looking ahead, a UAAP vs NCAA matchup was set in the Asiabasket semifinals. Additionally, the NCAA league is scheduled to make a return to the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.