UAAP Season 88 may end early to allow players to join Gilas for SEA Games 2025

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) may cut its Season 88 men’s basketball tournament short to give way to the national team’s campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) this December in Bangkok, Thailand.

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Norman Black revealed that he already has commitments from eight players to suit up for the Philippines in the biennial meet. Justin Brownlee, Ange Kouame, Ray Parks, Matthew Wright, Dave Ildefonso, Jason Brickman, Veejay Pre, and Remy Martin have all pledged their availability. But Black is hoping more reinforcements from the UAAP ranks will be cleared to join, particularly to strengthen the frontline.

Black has his sights on Ateneo big man Mason Amos and La Salle forward Mike Phillips, both of whom have previously represented the country. The addition of the two young bigs would give Gilas extra depth against taller Southeast Asian opponents.

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Talks are already underway between the UAAP and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) about possibly adjusting the collegiate league’s calendar. Far Eastern University (FEU) official and UAAP Season 88 vice president Mark Molina confirmed the development during a press conference on Monday, September 15.

UAAP holding its Season 88 basketball press conference at Gloria Maris in Greenhills ahead of Friday’s opener at the UST campus. Basketball competitions tip off the following day. | @jonasterradoINQ pic.twitter.com/oiOW5RCv1f

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) September 15, 2025

“UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag and I recently met with SBP executive director Erika Dy to explore ways to possibly finish the UAAP basketball tournament early so that UAAP players can participate in the SEA Games. There will be a decision soon. The board will meet regarding this, and we will update you,” Molina said.

Molina underscored that the UAAP has consistently supported national teams across different levels. He cited the Under-16 squad that competed earlier this year, which featured a roster composed largely of UAAP standouts. He also pointed to the women’s division, whose opening was delayed by a week to accommodate players competing in the upcoming FIBA Asia 3×3 tournament.

“The UAAP is always willing and ready to help the national team at all levels,” Molina stressed.

The timing of the SEA Games presents a unique scheduling challenge. Last year, UAAP Season 87 tipped off in September and wrapped up on December 15. With this year’s SEA Games running from December 9 to 20, the league would either need to compress its schedule or end the season earlier than usual to avoid a conflict.

For Black and Gilas, having UAAP stars available could be pivotal. The SEA Games remain a source of national pride, and basketball continues to be the centerpiece sport for the Philippines. Balancing player commitments between collegiate competition and international duty will be crucial in ensuring the country fields its best possible lineup in Bangkok.

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