Filoil Cup returns May 17 with UAAP, NCAA teams gearing up for new season

The country’s top collegiate basketball programs return to action as the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup tips off on May 17, serving as a key buildup for the upcoming UAAP and NCAA seasons.

Bannered by powerhouse schools from both leagues, the tournament offers an early look at revamped rosters and emerging stars as teams fine-tune their systems ahead of the official collegiate campaigns.

The University of the Philippines enters the competition as the three-time defending preseason champion, looking to extend its dominance behind a retooled squad led by former UAAP Rookie of the Year Veejay Pre.

Reigning UAAP champion De La Salle University is also expected to contend, with Jacob Cortez and Mason Amos spearheading the Green Archers’ campaign.

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University makes its return to the tournament, showcasing a new generation of talent highlighted by prized recruit Kieffer Alas.

From the NCAA side, defending champion San Beda University leads the charge with Nygel Gonzales at the helm, while Colegio de San Juan de Letran banks on veteran guard Titing Manalili to anchor its bid.

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𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐎𝐢𝐥 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐎𝐢𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐮𝐩: Over the past three years, University of the Philippines has been a picture of consistency.

Entering the knockout phase as the third seed, they were vulnerable. But for head coach Goldwin Monteverde and his battle-tested… pic.twitter.com/3sysPlD8JF

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The preseason tilt will again follow a familiar format, with UAAP and NCAA teams grouped separately in a single-round robin. The top four squads from each group will advance to the crossover quarterfinals, where the tournament shifts to a knockout stage.

Off the court, the league also welcomes new leadership, with BJ Manalo taking over as commissioner and working alongside veteran sports figure Joe Lipa and the organizing committee.

“It’s a wonderful privilege to be in touch with the current players and the current head coaches, and to have this chance to learn from coach Joe. This is special,” said Manalo.

The tournament finals are scheduled for July 18, where one game will decide the champion.

As teams continue to rebuild and reload, the Filoil Preseason Cup once again sets the stage for what could unfold in the collegiate season ahead.

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