LOOKING to speed up the development of its new core after the exit of seniors from last season’s UAAP squad, National University is participating in several tournaments including the PBA D-League.
NU-BDO will parade Cameroonian reinforcement Alfred Aroga, JJay Alejandro, and Matt Salem, and former Bulldogs cagers Javelona, Tristan Perez, and Robin Rono in the D-League Aspirants Cup.
“Since we have a lot of new players, we want to use the tournament just to hone up, improve the team, and play against tougher teams,” said NU coach Eric Altamirano.
NU had a decent campaign in Season 78, reaching the Final Four as the fourth seed following a 7-7 win-loss record, but was eliminated by top seed University of Santo Tomas.
The Bulldogs are in rebuilding mode following the graduation of key players from last year led by Gelo Alolino and Pao Javelona.
Troy Rosario, who helped lead the Bulldogs to the UAAP Season 77 title, joined the pros earlier and was drafted by Talk ‘N Text.
Altamirano said they plan to join other tournaments.
“We plan to join a lot of tournaments as well. We feel that the D-League is a good tournament for us,” said Altamirano.
“We are just here to play and to experience tougher games especially against older, more mature players. We feel that it will help the preparation for the UAAP,” said Altamirano.
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