Showing posts with label basketball. Show all posts

Sports: Junior Maroons goes all out in Breakdown Invitationals but misses finals



The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Junior Maroons Basketball Team closed their semi-finals match with a loss, 62-72, against the English Christian Academy (ECA) in the Smart Breakdown Invitational Tournament 2017 last September 30 at the Moro Lorenzo Gym in Quezon City.

High scoring veteran guard Bryan Lina produced 23 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds to lead the Junior Maroons. Matt Santiago also chipped in 11 points but wasn’t enough to defeat ECA.

The team slowly built a 15-point head start in the 2nd and 3rd quarters but 3-point shots by the ECA shifted the momentum and gave a 10-point cushion for them in the 4th quarter, denying the Junior Maroons a chance to catch up.

PASS FIRST. UPIS Junior Maroons veteran guard Bryan Lina passes the ball over two defenders as he tries to overcome ECA in the semis. Photo Credit: The SMART Breakdown Basketball Invitationals

Though the team failed to enter the finals, the Junior Maroons still showed their guns. Ralph Labao clinched the Best in Defense award while veteran Jaggie Gregorio earned a seat in the Mythical Five after his stellar performance throughout the tournament.

“It was a blessing, but I really thought a championship would’ve been better,” combo guard Gregorio said as he shared his bittersweet sentiments about the award.

Labao expressed his thoughts about the team’s points of improvement. “Siguro mag bonding pa, focus sa game, at wag intindihin yung score.”

The Junior Maroons also participated in the Philippine Chinese Association Basketball League (PCABL), where they achieved a 1-5 win-loss record, as another off-season preparation for Season 80 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) which begins on November 11. //by Blade Saliva and Julius Guevarra

Sports: Junior Maroons drop first 4 assignments in PCABL



The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Junior Maroons struggled to find their game and fell to a four-game losing streak in the Pilipinas Chinese Amateur Basketball League (PCABL).

Veteran guard Bryan Lina top-scored in their first game with 17 points, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds against Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) last August 18, 2017. In the end, it was the height advantage that gave the Ateneo an 11-point lead to win the game in 78-67.

Forward Matt Santiago chipped in 20 points in a hard-fought second game versus Adamson last August 21, 2017. The Fighting Maroons came back from a 25-point deficit yet missed the last shot in overtime to give Adamson an 80-78 win.

With 17 points and 10 rebounds, Santiago also led the team during their third game last August 27 when they battled against Chang Kai Shek College (CKSC). It was a close game in the first three quarters but CKSC gathered enough steam and dealt UPIS its third loss, 95-71.

The Maroons engaged in a heated game against UAAP rivals University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tiger Cubs last September 2 but failed to recover after a bad start to lose their fourth consecutive game, 88-75.

GRIND. Veteran Jaggie Gregorio fights for the loose ball with hopes of scoring a point for the fighting Junior Maroons. Photo Credit: ASI PCABL Smart Invitational Tournament 2017

“Siguro yung consistency. Kasi ang basketball is a 40-minute game. Hindi pwedeng 30 minutes maganda laro tapos last 10 minutes wala na,” Lina expressed his thoughts on their points for improvement.

They will try to get back on the winning track this Sunday, September 10, versus University of the East at the Buddhacare Gym. // by Cedric Jacobo and Trisa de Ocampo

Sports: The Real MVPs



The Juniors division of UAAP Season 79 is over, but this doesn’t mean that our athletes’ battles are over. Rather, it is the start of a long and intensive preparation for the next UAAP season. Here are the players who showed brilliance in their sport and donned the colors of maroon and green with pride.

One-Two Punch: Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero

PARTNERS-IN-CRIME. Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero (L-R), the power duo of the UPIS VST Girls’ Team, bagged several medals as they represented UPIS in various swimming competitions. Photo Credit: Zoe Hilario


Despite the busy schedule of student-athletes, Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero didn’t fail to show their undeniable dedication in all their swimming competitions. The numerous medals they won together with their other teammates paved the way for them to make it to the NCR Meet. During the last UAAP 79 Juniors Swimming Tournament, Hilario brought home 7 medals and broke the record in the 400m Individual Medley while Esmero brought home 4 medals. As they are only a sophomore and a junior, respectively, many are excited as they wait for them to unleash their full potential. Who knows? They might even lead the Junior Maroon Tankers to the top of the podium in the seasons to come.

 Crowd Favorite: Emerson Ebreo

ALWAYS READY. Even with his limited minutes, Emerson Ebreo still managed to contribute and energize the UPIS Junior Maroons in his own way. Photo Credit: Emerson Ebrero


It is a rare instance when a homegrown student makes it to the Juniors Basketball Team’s UAAP line up, but this definitely didn’t stop Emerson Ebrero. Last Season 79, Ebreo from Batch 2019 started his UAAP campaign. Even with limited minutes on the court, he made sure to make the most out of it. With his charm and “angas”, he effortlessly won the heart of the crowd, serving as the spark plug of the team. Hopefully, we will see more of him in the next competitions.

Lowkey Player of the Year: Jazper Pacis

BEWARE. Jazper Pacis surpasses his limits after winning Rookie of the Year in the UAAP Season 79 Table Tennis Tournament last October 2016. Photo Credit: Raymund Creencia


Many may not know about Jazper Pacis, the prized recruit of the UPIS Table Tennis team from Kings‘ Montessori. Despite being quiet and shy, this didn’t hinder him from showing what he is capable of. In fact, he was hailed as the UAAP79 Rookie of the Year in Table Tennis. Despite this huge success, he still keeps his feet on the ground and gives his heart out in every training to improve more in order to be one of the best.

Walk in the Park: Gyles Abac

LEGACY.  Since he was in Grade 5, Gyles Abac has been training with the Junior Maroon Tracksters. He stared making a name for himself when he debuted in UAAP 76 in 2013. Photo Credit: UPIS Track and Field (FB Page)


As a freshman, Gyles Abac watched the seniors from the sidelines and took it as an inspiration to work harder in trainings. His commitment and patience to Track and Field (TnF) paid off very well as he won a gold and a bronze in the recently concluded UAAP79. He also was the lone representative of the UPIS TnF team in this year’s NCR Meet. Aside from being athletic, he is also blessed with a talent in the field of art. Gyles is known as one of the most creative people in his batch with a knack for drawing and video-making. Recently, he participated in the SDG Youth Competition where his team made it to the Top 7.

Setting the Standards High: Urielle Lilang

VETERAN. Urielle Lilang proves that experience matters more than height as she led the UPISGVT in the last UAAP Season 79 Girls’ Volleyball Tournament. Photo Credit: Urielle Lilang


Three years of being the heart and soul of the Girls Volleyball Team, Urielle Lilang’s legacy is a hard act to follow. Because of her height, most won’t even think of her as a volleyball player, but once she steps on the court, her doubters immediately become her fans. As the team’s setter, setting up plays and being the manager of the team are her main tasks. Even with the huge responsibility put on her shoulders as the team captain, she still prioritizes her studies. In fact, she was one of the few students chosen to go to Japan for the cultural student exchange program of Saijyo Super Science High School last February 2016. //by Julian Taloma, Maica Cabrera and Beca Sinchongco

Sports: Winning Moments



In the recently concluded UAAP Season 79, the Junior Maroons proved that they can be what they are right now: athletes who made UPIS proud by playing their hearts out. With all the pressure and criticism they received off-season, they managed to shake it off with heads held high in the hopes of reaching their goals as representatives of their teams and of the UPIS community.

The Junior Maroons may have failed to bring home a championship this year, but we cannot deny the fact that each team has performed beyond expectations and surprised us with an outstanding Season 79 campaign.

One Team

GIRL POWER. The UPISVST Girls’ Team took home their third straight bronze finish at the UAAP Season 79 Swimming Competition last October 2016. Photo Credit: Ms. Anne Mapa

The incomparable bond that everybody sees within the UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) isn’t just seen in school. They aren’t just evident in photos they post online but mostly in their competitions. They have showed great unity in their games which was pivotal in ushering in their success, specifically in this UAAP season.

The Girl’s Swimming team racked up their third consecutive 2nd runner up finish in UAAP79 where they scored 238 points and brought home 15 medals. Their remarkable achievement was mostly led by sophomore Zoe Hilario, who also broke the former record in the 400m individual Medley. Sophomore Chloe Fabic and Junior Charize Esmero also helped Hilario in this season’s campaign.

The UPIS Boys Swimming Team, on the other hand, won 6th place in the competition. Senior Drew Magbag led his team by winning 2 silvers and a bronze medal.

The Beasts of the Tartan Track

ALL IN. The UPIS TnF Team faced many challenges in UAAP 79 but they still fought hard as one family. Photo Credit: Caila Cadiz

After finishing third last Season 78 in both boys’ and girls’ divisions, all eyes are on the UPIS Track and Field Team as they attempt to finish better in Season 79. However, problems struck them early in the season. Ace players sustained injuries while some were not listed in their assigned events. But this didn’t stop them from giving their best for the colors of maroon and green, which resulted to a fourth-place finish for both
teams.

Usual front-runners Gyles Abac, Forth Soriano, and Charles Epino performed well, bagging medals left and right. Meanwhile, debuting thrower Shaina Queri surprised the girls’ division, claiming the lone medal of the Junior Tracksters in the girls’ division.

With their vast improvement this season, there’s no stopping our Junior Dashing Maroons from exceeding expectations in future competitions.

Trust the Process

TEAMWORK. Despite falling short, the UPIS Basketball Team made the whole UPIS Community proud after their attempt at redemption in the UAAP Season 79 Basketball Tournament. Photo Credit: Teddy Manansala

The Junior Maroons may have failed to make it to the final four after losing two crucial games in the homestretch, but this season is one of their best showings in recent years. They are led by this season’s MVP, Juan Gomez De Liano and their seniors, BJ Lina, Jaggie Gregorio, and Joelo Tupaz .

They finished the season with 5 wins and 9 losses, which gave them a higher chance of getting the much-coveted Final Four ticket but was foiled by the DLSZ Green Archers.

They may lose several veteran and key players in the roster next season, but all they ask from the UPIS community is to trust the process and support them through and through.

Bright Future

BETTER FINISH. The UPIS Table Tennis Team finished 6th in the last UAAP Season 79 while the team’s newbie, Jazper Pacis, managed to bag the Rookie of the Year Award. Photo Credit: Melvin Lava

After four months of intense training and preparations, the UPIS Table Tennis team finished 6th overall this season. Veterans James Ecito, and Rene Rollon II showed amazing performances while Rookie of the Year Jazper Pacis surprised not just his opponents but the whole UAAP Table Tennis community after putting up a love-set performance against Adamson.

With an amazing rookie and a dedicated team that showed their potential in Season 79,
everyone can’t wait to see their games in the future.

Game Booster
LOUD AND PROUD. The UPIS Pep Squad displays a newer, fresher team look as they proudly wear their new uniforms sponsored by the Delos Santos Medical Center. Photo Credit: Claire Mapa


Screaming their lungs out every game, the UPIS Pep Squad surely deserves more recognition. They were the ones who pushed and cheered for the players to go all out in every game, through each win and each defeat. Because of their amazing half-time performances, they were able to attract a sponsor, the Delos Santos Medical Center, for their team shoes and uniform.

They may not compete as athletes, but expect that they are going to be present in every game. Behind every athlete’s success is a squad who is ready to bring out the athletes’ determination to win.

Nowhere to go But UP

All of the UPIS varsity teams indeed improved this UAAP season. The patience and hard work that they all dedicated have paid off. This season was indeed a blast not just for the student-athletes, but also the school they’re representing. The enthusiasm and support every UPIS student gives to all the varsity teams proves that each UAAP season is really something to look forward to. This season might be over, but more opportunities are to come for each team and its fans. As they bring the best of themselves in every game, who knows? Maybe soon we’ll see our teams crowned on the podium and rejoicing in triumph. //by Julian Taloma, Maica Cabrera and Hanna David

Sports: UP and Coming Superstar



It took grit, guts, and grind but finally, after a decade, another MVP is in the midst of the Diliman community.

Juan Gerardo Sison Gomez de Liaño, phenom that he is, led the UPIS Junior Maroons to a more improved standing, 5-9, in UAAP Season 79. Despite falling two games short of reaching the final four, he still led the MVP race with 70.43 statistical points and posted outstanding numbers throughout the season. By averaging 19.1 points per game to go along with his 10.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per outing, he is also a shoo-in for the Mythical Five.

KING JUNIOR MAROON. Juan Gomez de Liano was crowned as the Most Valuable Player of Season 79 UAAP Juniors Basketball Tournament. Photo Credit: spin.ph


But before the King Junior Maroon claimed his throne, he was once a little dreamer.

Juan alongside his brothers used to watch along the sidelines of the hardcourt. They always went to the park to watch others play the game and at some point, they fell in love with it. They learned by first being spectators and acquiring some tips from their Daddy Bert Gomez de Liaño while their Tito Rainier Sison, who used to play for Air 21 in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and is a former Ateneo sharpshooter, was their first “teacher”.

But there’s one thing many don't know about this guy: he was a grade school swimming prospect who took home trophies and medals like it was nothing. When asked why he chose basketball over swimming he said, "Because I felt that I was better at it and it came naturally so I had to set aside my swimming. And mas fit sa akin to play ball kasi I prefer team sports."

For quite some time now, Juan has been the most sought-after baller in town. Schools everywhere have been courting him, but it doesn't matter now because the MVP has set his eyes on UP and has committed to stay with the Diliman community.

After Juan made his decision, no one is happier than Javi Gomez de Liaño, his big brother and one of the UP Men’s Basketball Team’s rookies. It will be a reunion for them as they will get to relive the days when they both played for the Junior Maroons. "It is one of our childhood dreams as kids and bros who've been wanting to play college basketball together. But Joe's in UST now. It feels good to be reunited again, like, this is what we've been working for. Plus it's a blessing too," Javi shared.

The sky’s the limit for Juan as he is now ready to take the seniors division by storm. He might just be the player we need to claim an elusive final four finish, and who knows, maybe with this rising phenom, the UP Fighting Maroons will finally take the throne. //by Jaggie Gregorio, Blade Saliva, Nathan Ramos and Julian Taloma

Sports: Junior Maroons falls short of UAAP79 Final Four


The National University (NU) Bullpups dominated the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Junior Maroons, 90-64, in their University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) match-up on February 1 at the Filoil Flying V Arena.

TAAS-KAMAO. The UPIS Junior Maroons are teary-eyed while singing UP Naming Mahal after giving their best in their last UAAP game for season 79.  Photo credit: Teddy Manansala

Ralph Labao stepped up by tallying 21 points and 2 rebounds but NU’s solid defense held UPIS’ main scorer Juan Gomez de Liano (GDL) to only 9 points and 14 rebounds.

The loss to the Bullpups dimmed the Maroons’ final four hopes but it was the De La Salle Zobel (DLSZ) Green Archers that completely shut down the door on UPIS as they snatched the last playoff ticket via an 82-69 win on February 4 at the Filoil Flying V Arena.

It was a total team effort for UPIS led by Gomez de Liano who scored 12 points and provided 6 rebounds while Labao and Matt Santiago scored 12 points apiece. Senior Bryan Lina also chipped in 9 points and 4 rebounds and was very vocal in leading the team.

UPIS dominated the first 12 minutes of the game, scoring 22-16, but the Archers came back to steal the first half from the Junior Maroons, 42-34. In the third quarter, UPIS made a big run led by GDL and Labao to cut the lead to 1 at the end of the quarter, 57-56.

However, the Maroons were clearly affected by the referees’ calls so it became difficult for them to defend against the DLSZ comeback.

It was an emotional game for the team, especially for seniors Lina, Gomez de Liano, and Lagahit. They exhausted all effort, showed courage, and poured their hearts out until the final buzzer of their high school UAAP career that left their fans and supporters teary-eyed in the arena.

“Naka-mindset kami na papasok kami sa final four pero nung na-realize kasi namin na last game na, nag-flashback lahat,” said Lina. “Sobrang thankful rin kami sa UPIS Community kasi nakita namin yung pagbabago sa suporta at kayo talaga yung nagbibigay ng motivation sa amin,” he added.

He also wants their teammates to learn from their mistakes this season. “Minor setback for a major comeback,” Lina proudly shared.

The UPIS Basketball Team led by UPIS alums Coach Paolo Mendoza and Coach Ogie Gumatay will try for redemption next season. The Labao Brothers, Ralph and Rafael, will lead the team next season together with seniors Jaggie Gregorio and Joelo Tupaz .// by Carlos Laderas

Sports: UPIS Junior Maroons defeats UE



HUSTLE. Rafael Labao (right) tries to escape Jez Villapando's (left) sneaky defense in their game against the UST Tiger Cubs last Nov 22.
Photo credit: Josh Albelda

The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Basketball Team dominated the UE Red Warriors 95-63, at the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season 79 last Saturday, November 19, 2016 at the Fil-oil Flying V Arena.

Juan Gomez de Liano led the team with 24 big points, 11 rebounds and 3 steals. Ralph Labao played spectacular defense, tallied 10 huge steals, and contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds. It was a total team effort as their bench also produced 23 points.

The Junior Maroons started the game strong with confidence and owned the first half with a score of 46-24. They used their sneaky defense to minimize the scoring of the Red Warriors.

Despite a great start, the team struggled at the 3rd quarter. They only scored 13 points that gave the Red Warriors hope and ended the 3rd quarter, 59-52. But UPIS Fighting Maroons came back and never looked back after a crucial 3-point shot by UPIS veteran Bryan Lina. They ended the last quarter with 36 points that gave them the 95-63 win.

“We are all in one page. Maganda yung start ng game namin and consistent yung laro namin,” Lina said when was asked about the key to their win. “Maganda rin yung mindset namin kasi we came off a big win versus DLSU so parang confidence booster namin yun,” he added.

But after this big win, the UPIS Junior Maroons falls into a 2-game losing skid after losing against UST and FEU last November 22 and 26, respectively. UST escaped UPIS, 69-67, while they get their 3rd loss against dominant FEU, 84-68.

The Junior Maroons is currently tied with Ateneo at fifth place with a 2-3 standing. They will try to end their losing streak next Saturday, December 3, 2016 versus ADMU Blue Eaglets at the Filoil Flying V Arena. //by Carlos Laderas

Sports: Junior Maroons routs DLSZ, grabs first win



TRUST THE PROCESS. The UPIS Basketball Team gets ready to battle their way to the top as they start their UAAP S79 campaign.
Photo credit: Roberto B. Sison 

The UPIS Basketball Team bounced back big and played brilliant basketball on both ends of the floor en route to their first win in two outings via an 81-59 drubbing of De La Salle Zobel last November 15 at the FIlOil Flying V Arena, San Juan City.

Juan Gomez de Liano led the team with 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists while Rafael Labao chipped in 16 markers and 5 rebounds.

But it was a total team effort as the Junior Maroons played outstanding defense the whole game especially in the second quarter when they limited the Junior Archers to a mere 11 points. They also out-rebounded La Salle, 42-34.

This was a morale-boosting win for the team especially after going down against the Adamson Baby Falcons, 82-59, in their opening game on November 12.

Gomez De Liano also led all UPIS scorers in that game with his first double-double of the season, 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists but the defending champions proved too tough to handle.

The Junior Maroons go for a second straight win against the UE Junior Warriors next Saturday, November 19. //CCCA, with reports from Nathan Ramos

Sports: UAAP Board denies UPIS Juniors appeal for rematch

The UAAP Board scrapped chances of a possible rematch between the UPIS Junior Fighting Maroons and the UST Tiger Cubs yesterday, December 2.

The Maroons lost by default to the Tigers at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym on November 21 due to a miscommunication regarding the game schedule.

The team was not informed that the match, originally slated at 1:00 in the afternoon, was moved to 9:00 a.m.

A UAAP secretariat phoned Coach Allan Gregorio at 8:30 am on game day saying that their opponent was already waiting for them.

The UPIS team rushed to get to the game but due to heavy traffic along Katipunan Avenue, they arrived an hour later, and by then, the result has been decided.

The UPIS Junior Maroons currently have a 0-5 win-loss record after dropping their assignments against FEU, DLSZ, UST, NU, and ADMU. They play their next game on December 5 against Adamson. / by Raymund Creencia

Sports: UPIS edges UE to win last game of season ‘77

The UPIS Junior Maroons orchestrated a masterful demolition of the UE Junior Warriors en route to a 93-65 win in their last game of UAAP Season ’77 last Saturday, January 31 at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.

Third-year ace power forward Javi Gomez de Liano showed his monstrous form, scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds, pacing the Junior Maroons in their win.

Graduating players Joe Gomez de Liano and Team Captain Enzo Barraquias both had great games in their last time wearing the Junior Maroon uniform, combining 22 points and 19 rebounds.

The key for the win was ball movement, as the Junior Maroons dished a team total of 24 assists, compared to the Junior Warrior’s 10 dimes.

The Junior Maroons fought toe-to-toe with the Junior Warriors in the opening quarter, with the latter getting the lead at the end of the first, 19-20.

With 4:54 left in the second quarter and the Maroons up 30-29, Barraquias suffered a cut in the right forehead after a head collision with UE’s Camillus Altamirano. That seemed to be the turning point of the game as the Maroons went on to grab the second quarter, 41-34.

The Maroons never looked back after that as they extended the lead in the second half. The largest lead of the game was 30 points, 93-63, at the 0:59 mark of the final quarter after reserve Matt Santiago knocked down two free throws.

Team captain Barraquias was all praises for the team in their win.

“Everyone stepped up. We had 24 assists compared sa whole season average naming na 7,” he said.

He also has good words for the future Junior Maroons team.

“They’re in good hands. Nangyari na ang worst case scenario and 1 year pa lang sila nagsasama-sama. Ngayon may 3 additional players, malaking tulong ito para sa team lalo na nandiyan si Gozum, he said.

Will Allen Gozum is skilled third-year center acquired by UPIS this season but sat out this season to complete his residency.

Barraquias added that the team is already talented but needs to improve certain aspects of their game such as focus, discipline, and teamwork. / by Macky Barrientos

Junior Maroons loses thriller game, drops to 1-6

The UPIS Junior Maroons lost a close contest against the Adamson Baby Falcons, 56-50, to close out the first round of Season 77 with a 1-6 record last December 20 at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.

Third year wingman Allane Barles led the charge for the Maroons with his 13-point output. Jaggie Gregorio and Bryan Lina provided support by adding 11 and 7 points respectively.

The Junior Maroons succumbed to the Baby Falcons’ hot shooting in the first half where they trailed, 30-18, at the halftime break.

Adamson extended its lead to 19 as they unleashed an 8-1 run with more than six minutes remaining in the third.

UPIS then bounced back and staged a furious 13-4 run to end the third quarter and close the gap at 36-45.

Both teams struggled to score in the first few minutes of the fourth and final quarter. Junior Maroons’ Coach Allan Gregorio was slapped with a Technical Foul in the 7-minute mark because of his violent reaction to a non-call on a missed Barles layup.

The Junior Maroons nonetheless were not fazed as the younger Gregorio sparked another spectacular run by the Maroons which brought them to within one, at 49-50, with around two minutes remaining.

That was the closest they could get, however, as the breaks of the game in the dying seconds went in favour of the Baby Falcons, thus securing their win.

The Junior Maroons has lost six straight games after winning their first assignment against UE.
The second round will resume on January 7, 2015 when they take on the DLSZ Junior Archers. / by Macky Barrientos and Julou Tirol

Sports: UPIS Junior Maroons cruises to first win

The UPIS Junior Maroons start their season on the right track, defeating the UE Junior Warriors, 67-54, in their first game of season 77 on November 29 at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.

Birthday boy Bryan Lina led the UPIS offense with a total of 15 points. Team Captain Enzo Barraquias provided support by contributing 10 points while juniors Ron Lagahit, and Allane Barles chipped in 7 markers each.

Center Joelo Tupaz meanwhile led the team on the defensive end with a total of seven blocked shots.

A strong second quarter performance propelled the Junior Maroons to an astounding 18 point lead at the half, 39-21. The Junior Warriors never got back in the game, thus securing the win for UPIS.

The Junior Maroons though failed in their second assignment, losing 67-51 against the FEU Baby Tamaraws on December 3.

The Baby Tamaraws opened the game with a 12-0 run and never looked back. Although UPIS was able to narrow down the lead to four points, 24-20, halfway through the second quarter, they never led in the entire game.

Third year guard Jaggie Gregorio was the lone bright spot for the team in the game, tallying 11 points with a perfect 8/8 clip on the free throw line.

The boys will go up against the UST Tiger Clubs on Saturday, December 6. / by Macky Barrientos

Sports: UPIS Junior Maroons have high hopes for this season

The UPIS Junior Fighting Maroons are looking to improve their so-so performance last season. Tallying only a total of five wins out of fourteen outings, the UPIS Basketball team finished at sixth place.

Enzo Barraquias, this season's team captain, responded confidently when asked about their expectations.

“Expect muna ng Final Four, mga 6-7 wins siguro, tapos bahala na sa susunod (We expect to finish in the Final Four, around 6-7 wins, then we’ll see what happens next),” he said.

Other UPIS students also have high expectations for the Junior Basketball team.

“Magchachampion ‘yan! (They will be the champions!)” said student Paolo Gonzales, an avid fan of the Junior Maroons.

“Feeling ko nga eh, may chance na mag-improve, (I feel there is a chance that they will improve.)” said Trisha Serrano, a grade 10 student.

“Kayang pumasok sa top 5 (They can finish in the top 5),” said Paolo Bartilad, a member of the UPIS Track and Field team.

Since most of this season’s game will be played at the nearby Blue Eagle Gym, the basketball team is encouraging everyone to support and cheer for them.

“We invite everyone to watch our games this season at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym. Please support us,” Barraquias said.

They will start their season 77 campaign against the University of the East on November 29. / by Macky Barrientos

Feature: Diego Dario: Playing His Heart Out


Diego Dario with the writer, his adviser and no. 1 fan, Prof. Dian Caluag. (c) Jib Fernandez
He could turn basketball-ignorants to die-hard fanatics with just one game. He has conquered personal goals he only wished he could at his age. And he has kept his feet on the court despite the pace of the sport.  It should be no surprise, then, if this pint-sized point guard of the Junior Fighting Maroons makes more unexpected things happen for himself, his team, and his country.

10-Narra's special "graduation" rites for Diego Dario. (c) Jib Fernandez
Currently in the United States for a three-week training, missing even his high school graduation, Diego Miguel Dario has constantly proven that when God wills it, anything is possible. He fondly recalls how nobody expected the Gilas Pilipinas Youth Team, of which he has recently been part, to finish as silver medallists in the FIBA Asia Under 16 2013 Series and to qualify for the FIBA Under 17  World Series in Dubai next year.

For someone who regards basketball as more than a game, Diego is continuously inspired to get better at this sport, to never be disheartened by faults, and to always be thankful for whatever it has given him along the way.

Starting Five
His basketball career started when he was five years old. His dad, who remains to be his all-time coach, has enrolled him in a MILO Best Basketball Clinic that summer and every summer hence. At that tender age, Diego has learned that basketball was not just a game to play, but a routine to love and a discipline to embrace. Since then, he and his dad has regularly devoted time for daily practices; they also used to be an hour or so earlier at training to practice on their own; and he has tirelessly joined barangay leagues to further improve his skills and gain experience and friends. Looking back, he acknowledges that it is the “extra” he has always exerted that enables him to keep up with the demands and pressure of his basketball career.

Scanning the Floor
Diego who stands a tall five foot seven is one of the shortest in his current teams. However, this height ‘disadvantage’ is compensated for by his speed, skill, and strategic thinking inside the court. He takes to heart his role as point guard, and brings to every game the drive to win not by words but through actions.

Fast Break
Diego has become part of several playing teams through hard work. In Grade 2, he got in his elementary school’s basketball team which only accepts youngest members from Grade 4. In 2010, after entertaining the invitation from the then coach, he tried out for the Junior Fighting Maroons. When he was accepted, he believed he started to realize his youthful dream of playing in either the NCAA or UAAP in high school.

Time Out
However, some events go off beam in his seemingly ideal life. He was particularly disappointed when, during his first year at UPIS, he was not lined up for the season. In another instance, he had to let go of the opportunity to join in the SEABA Series to be able to play for UPIS this year. Admirably, he has never considered these events as setbacks. He has remained focused in improving his skill, has learned to let these things go, and has always trusted that God has better plans for him.

He considers his stay at UPIS for the past four years instrumental in honing more his talent with the able guidance of his coaches and team mates; vital in encouraging him to extend the discipline he practices in court to his daily affairs; and significant in allowing him to meet people and build lasting relationships.

Long Shot
His talent has not gone unnoticed. He was invited by the Ateneo Eaglets coach to try out for the national team who will compete in the FIBA Asia Under 16 Series in 2013. From more than 300 aspirants countrywide, 25 were selected to be part of the training pool. After a rigorous work in summer, he was one of the 12 skilled and lucky boys chosen from the training pool to represent the Philippines in international leagues.

Free Throw
Diego considers it a privilege, more than an obligation, to represent the country. For this reason, he takes pride in what the Gilas Pilipinas Youth Team has accomplished for the Philippines. And it is also for this that he has enjoyed playing with people from different nations, making new friends, and surviving a challenge he has only dreamed of.

Overtime
Despite his achievements, Diego remains grounded in the knowledge that there will always be a room for improvement: “(I’m) still far from what I really want to be but I am very blessed to achieve this much and reach my dreams. More dreams to reach though! All for God!”

For him, popularity is not something that should get in the head – it is just a bonus that comes with any achievement. Even after several media exposure and recognitions for his skill, Diego reminds himself that these are motivations to get better. He wants to be remembered as someone who never gives up and who does his best in anything.

Though he would not trade anything for basketball, Diego has an equally high regard for education. He plans to take up Economics in college and become a businessman, in the footsteps of his mom. He is certain that when made to choose between studies and basketball, he would prioritize the former. An UPCAT qualifier, he is leaning towards playing for the UP Fighting Maroons to “give back to the school.”

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Diego is a source of pride – he is a focused player, an excellent athlete, a dedicated student, a disciplined young lad, and an obedient son to his parents who have instilled in him that he remains humble and focused on his goals however much he achieves.

And he owes much to people who never tire of backing him up no matter what: “Thank you for all the support. I feel very blessed and humbled. You guys also inspire me. I'll continue to do my best and get better. See you around!! God bless!”

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When in the future, this pint-sized point guard soars even more height than he already has, he assures that he will keep up the attitude that has brought him to where he is now. / by D. Caluag

UPIS claims Coseteng Cup championship

The UPIS Junior Maroons won the championship of the Coseteng Cup against Diliman Preparatory School (DPS), 75-74, last March 17 via a basket by Raymart Sablan in the last five seconds.

Sablan was chosen as the Most Valuable Player (MVP). He, together with Juan Gomez de Liano, was also part of the Mythical Five.
(c) Juanito Gregorio

On March 22 a turnover ceremony which involved the endorsement of the championship trophy to UPIS was held at the Narra Function Room.

The event was attended by the principal Ronaldo San Jose, UPIS faculty, teachers, coaches and the Junior Maroons.

"Masaya kasi last game ko na yun sa high school at ginusto talaga naming magchampion before I leave high school," Sablan said. He also noted that he did not expect that he would be the MVP. "Dahil para sa akin lahat kami sa team MVP."

He claimed that the Junior Maroons needed and did these three things to win. "Hardwork, dedication and puso!" / by Dianne Saunders, Patrice Valero, Kyle de Guzman

UPIS dominates DLSZ in UAAP season-ender

The UPIS Junior Fighting Maroons ended their Season 75 campaign on a high note after pulling off a 63-52 victory over the De La Salle Zobel (DLSZ) Junior Archers at the San Juan Arena last September 23.

After being down by 1, 7-8, in a closely-fought low-scoring first quarter, a jumper by Aaron Lina started a UPIS scoring spree in the second. Drawing good scoring games from juniors Diego Dario and Benz Nacpil, and senior Paolo Ancheta, the Junior Maroons went on a 15-0 run to race to a dozen point lead at the end of the first half, 24-12.

Maroon 5. The graduating UPIS players at center court after the game
L-R: Quejada, Lina, Gregorio, Ancheta, Mercado. (c) Arielle Gabriel
The Junior Archers brought the UPIS lead down to 8, 24-16, after converting back-to-back baskets to start the third quarter. But the Junior Maroons took advantage of DLSZ’s early penalty, converting 10 of 15 free throws. Jozhua General scored a buzzer-beating putback to put UPIS in the lead by 13, 42-29, after three quarters.

There was no looking back for the Junior Maroons as they established the biggest lead of the game at 15, 46-31, with still 8 minutes left in the game, after Dario converted 1 of 2 at the line off a hard foul committed by a DLSZ player.

It was an emotional win for the Junior Maroons, especially for the graduating players, Ancheta, Lina, Juanito Gregorio, Vince Quejada, and Russell Mercado who played together at the 1:30 mark to finish the game.

UPIS ends the season at 6th place with a 4-10 win-loss record, a marked improvement from their 1-13 win-loss card last year. ● CCCA

Junior Maroons tramples UE

The Junior Maroons blew past University of the East, 82-67, in their first game of the 2nd round last August 30 at the MOA Arena.

UPIS started red-hot as they scored basket after basket to get the early lead. Defense was also key as they forced multiple turnovers to end the first quarter 24-8.

The 2nd quarter was a Paolo Ancheta show as he put up 15 points in the 2nd quarter. UPIS continued the pace and ended the half with a whopping 29-point lead, 47-18.

The Junior Maroons led as much as 38 in the 2nd half but UE attempted to make a comeback headed by Joshua Viajar. UE cut the lead to 19 in the last one and a half minutes but a flagrant foul penalty 1 on Viajar stopped their momentum. ● by Juanito Gregorio

UPIS loses to league-leading FEU, NU

UPIS suffered big back-to-back losses in the hands of the top two teams in the juniors basketball division of UAAP Season 75.

The Junior Maroons lost to the FEU-Fern Baby Tamaraws by 30, 77-47, last August 11 and to the NU Bullpups by 22, 69-47, last August 14.

FEU raced to a 9-0 run at the start of the game with their tremendous full court defense which forced UPIS to commit turnovers. UPIS’ Gelo Sablan also sprained his ankle with 8 minutes left in the first quarter which added to the woes of the team. UPIS had a run in the third quarter sparked by Josiah Chua but wasn’t enough to catch the raging Tamaraws.

UPIS kept up with NU until the end of the first half, 34-27, but NU started to break away from the game after a four-point play from Biteng and a putback from Cauilan of NU. It was downhill for UPIS from there as they started missing easy shots and turned the ball over a couple of times. ● by Aaron Lina and Juanito Gregorio

UPIS trips Adamson to get first win

The UPIS Junior Maroons chalked up their first win in UAAP season 75 via a come-from-behind victory over the Adamson Baby Falcons, 63-61, at the San Juan Arena last July 25.

Despite struggling offensively during the first three quarters, the Junior Maroons played good defense to stay close behind the Baby Falcons.

Headed by juniors Freddy Pajarillaga and Gelo Sablan, UPIS played catch-up aggressively on both ends of the court by forcing turnovers, scoring easy baskets, and controlling the boards.

With the score tied at 57-all, UPIS exerted one final push and finally got the lead less than a minute left in the ballgame via an undergoal stab and free throw conversion by Sablan.

But it was a steal by Paolo Ancheta which prevented the Falcons from coming back that sealed the game for the Junior Maroons. ● by Aaron Lina and Juanito Gregorio

Eaglets soars high over Junior Maroons

The Junior Maroons singing UP Naming Mahal after losing
to the Blue Eaglets last July 22. (c) Paolo Aljibe
UPIS lost its second UAAP game against the Ateneo Blue Eaglets, 92-75, last July 22 at the MOA Arena in Pasay.

It was all Ateneo from the get-go as they blasted to an 8-0 lead at the start of the game. UPIS point guard Aaron Lina headed a mini-run with a spin-move lay-up and a couple of assists to tie the ballgame at 12-apiece with 3 minutes left in the first quarter.

But the Eaglets forced consecutive turnovers and scored on fastbreaks to up their lead by 12 at the end of the first canto, 27-15.

With Ateneo’s stellar defense, UPIS continued to struggle and was trailing by 19 at halftime, 49-30.

Ateneo led by as much as 30 points with 6 minutes left in the ballgame. The Junior Maroons tried to trim the lead with a 21-4 run, sparked by back-to-back treys from Diego Dario but there is no stopping the Eaglets from scoring their first win. ● by Dara Lilang and Trizia Badong
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