Schools gear up for tighter competition, expanded coverage of UAAP 86 basketball

Date Posted: October 25, 2023 at 01:27 PM


In a much-awaited announcement, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has unveiled its plans for Season 86, promising an exhilarating journey filled with sportsmanship and unforgettable moments.  

Set to commence on September 30, 2023, at the iconic SM Mall of Asia Arena, this season's theme, "Fueling the Future," encapsulates the resilience, determination, and innovation that define collegiate sports in the Philippines. 

Led by University of the East (UE) President and Season 86 Chairman, Dr. Zosimo Battad, UAAP Season 86 seeks to build on the momentum and themes of the previous two seasons, fostering optimism in the post-pandemic landscape. 

Speaking about the season's theme, Dr. Battad expressed, "The 'Fueling the Future' theme reflects the unwavering commitment of our student-athletes and the entire UAAP community to overcome adversity and reach new heights. This season will showcase not only the incredible talents of our young student-athletes but also their potential to be catalysts for change." 

UE Athletic Director and Season 86 President, Rodrigo Roque, meanwhile, warmly invited the community, stating to take part in the new season of one of the country’s top collegiate leagues. 

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene "Rebo" Saguisag added to the enthusiasm, saying UAAP Season 86 will feature the normal full calendar of competitions, including additional demo events that would add more color to the games. 

Moreover, the official UAAP broadcaster, Cignal TV, introduced their new streaming service, Pilipinas Live, which will bring UAAP games closer to sports fans, promising a more accessible UAAP viewing experience to Filipinos, both locally and abroad, especially for the much-anticipated men’s basketball event, and the women’s basketball which will now consistently be broadcasted. 

The new application features an upgraded viewing experience, offering multi-camera angles to follow their favorite teams and players throughout the season, and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, pre and post-game interviews, and a unique fan stream view, which enables fans to see student-athlete idols and school teams from a new perspective.  

Real-time interactions during UAAP games, such as in-game voting, polls, and quizzes, will further enhance the viewing experience, taking UAAP fans to the next level. 

MediaQuest and Cignal TV President and CEO, Jane Jimenez Basas, expressed her pride in introducing Pilipinas Live to the world, saying, "UAAP Season 86 will be at the forefront of our programming, allowing Filipino fans anywhere they may be to experience the excitement of watching collegiate sports like never before. With Pilipinas Live, we are committed to enhancing the fan experience and making UAAP more accessible to a wider international audience." 

UAAP Season 86 Basketball games will be aired live on UAAP Varsity Channel, as well as free-to-air channels One Sports and Cignal TV, every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Reports from UAAP Media Team