JAMES Yap is one proud alumna seeing University of the East back in the conversation among the contenders in the UAAP.
"Malakas itong team na ito," said the two-time PBA MVP and current San Juan councilor as he watched the team live for the first time this Season 87.
Yap wasn't the only former Red Warrior on hand on Saturday, with Paul Artadi also joining him in showing their support to their alma mater.
Heck, even coach Franz Pumaren was there to support his former deputy Jack Santiago who has done a great job for UE, against his old team in La Salle no less.
Though this game saw the team's five-game win streak come to an end after a 77-68 loss to defending champion La Salle, Yap couldn't help but look at the positives as he sees a bright future for this unit.
READ: Vengeful La Salle gets back at UE, snaps Red Warriors streak at 5
"May laban itong team na ito. Kita mo naman pumapalag talaga, sayang lang itong game, pero laban ito. And kita mo naman sa support ng UE crowd," he said, pointing to the red side of the 8,890 which came to the Big Dome.
With Precious Momowei anchoring the team, the Red Warriors have been one of the feel good stories of the season, and at 5-3, is primed to end the school's 15-year Final Four drought.
Though this day didn't go the way of UE, Yap has no question on the potential.of this crew.
"Final Four ito," he said.
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