The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons once again proved their championship pedigree by securing the Season 87 crown, marking another historic achievement for the program.
With a dominant campaign and a hard-fought Finals series against the De La Salle Green Archers, UP captured their fourth men's seniors basketball title and solidified itself as a powerhouse in collegiate basketball.
UP FIGHTING MAROONS
SEASON 87 IN REVIEW:
Â
FINAL RANK | CHAMPION
Â
ELIMINATION ROUND | 11-3 (2 OF 8)
FINAL FOUR | WON OVER UST (TWICE-TO-BEAT)
FINALS | WON OVER DLSU, 2-1 (BEST OF THREE)
Â
AWARDS
FINALS MVP | JD CAGULANGAN
MYTHICAL FIVE | JD CAGULANGAN Â
UP’s road to the championship was anything but easy. After finishing second in the elimination round with an impressive 11-3 record, they faced a resilient UST squad in the Final Four. With their twice-to-beat advantage, the Fighting Maroons wasted no time in booking their ticket to the Finals, where they engaged in a thrilling three-game series against La Salle.
The Finals series tested their mettle, but in the end, UP emerged victorious, thanks in large part to their clutch leader, JD Cagulangan.
UP's success was built on a balanced team effort, with multiple players stepping up throughout the season.
JD Cagulangan once again delivered when it mattered most, earning the Finals MVP honors. His leadership, court vision, and ability to step up in clutch moments were instrumental in UP’s success. His inclusion in the Mythical Five further cemented his reputation as one of the best guards in collegiate basketball.
Aside from Cagulangan's leadership, Lebron Lopez provided an all-around presence, while Quentin Millora-Brown was a dominant force inside, nearly averaging a double-double. Harold Alarcon and Gerry Abadiano also made crucial contributions on both ends of the floor.
With another championship banner hanging in their rafters, the Fighting Maroons have set the standard for excellence. While Cagulangan has moved to the KBL's Suwon KT Sonicboom while Quentin Millora-Brown has now set his sights on the 2025 PBA Draft, the challenge now shifts to UP's title defense and continuing their reign at the top.