MANILA — Western Visayas continues to cement its status as a basketball hotbed as nine players from the region earned roster spots across multiple teams in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament, which tipped off last weekend.
The biggest representation comes from the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, which fielded three Western Visayas standouts: Iloilo City’s Gerry Abadiano, Silay City native Harold Alarcon, and Bago City’s Reyland Torres.
Adamson University Falcons also tapped regional talent, with Isabela, Negros Occidental rookie Kenji Cañete and Pontevedra’s Kobe Demisana donning the blue and white.
Veteran forward Cedrick Manzano, who grew up in Romblon but played high school ball for Hua Siong College of Iloilo Red Phoenix, also strengthens the Falcons’ roster.
The University of the East Red Warriors likewise boast a Bacolod connection with rookies Dylan Despi and Jax Distrito, nephew of former PBA player Rudy Distrito, both suiting up this season.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City’s Ian Espinosa joins powerhouse Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, while Bacolod’s Luis Pablo represents De La Salle University Green Archers.
Other participating schools in Season 88 include the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, National University Bulldogs, and Far Eastern University Tamaraws.
Western Visayas’ deep pool of talent has once again proven its influence on Philippine collegiate basketball, with homegrown players now spread across the country’s premier hoops battlefield./PN
