UAAP Power Rankings Week 0: NU reloads with Aroga

MANILA, Philippines — Yes, yes, we’re bound to disagree about most, if not all, of the following things, but just bear with me, okay? This is one of the most fun things to do when the college basketball wars commence. We all get to play expert and move around these schools as if they’re notches on the corkboard. Maybe at some point we might even make sense, or (shudder!) actually agree on something.

Presenting, the initial – pre-opening weekend – UAAP Season 76 Power Rankings. 

1. National University Bulldogs

– Alfred Aroga will be better than Henri Betayene was last year.
– Alfred Aroga will be better than Emmanuel Mbe was last year.
– Ray Parks will be better than Alfred Aroga.

2. University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers

– Finals experience from Season 75.
– With Fortuna out, at least 3 more shot attempts will go Jeric Teng’s way (okay, that might not always be a good thing).
– Karim Abdul will get out of summer hibernation.

3. Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles

– Bo Perasol’s system should maximize the deep guard roster of the Loyolans.
– Kiefer Ravena might be the Season 76 MVP.
– Never underestimate the heart of a 5-peat champion.

4. University of the East Red Warriors

– Great momentum because of an amazing preseason title run.
– Coach Boycie Zamar is the right coach for this group.
– Roi Sumang should be the best point guard in college right now (no disrespect, Mr. Amer).

5. De La Salle University Green Archers

– The Thomas Torres-LA Revilla PG combo should be awesome.
– Jason Perkins will be a Mythical Team candidate
– I think Jeron Teng will try to do too much in a good number of games.

6. Far Eastern University Tamaraws

– Nash Racela should breathe some fresh life into this program.
– That Romeo-Garcia bromance will never work.
– No Bringas and Escoto means a mighty thin frontcourt.

7. Adamson University Soaring Falcons

– Jericho Cruz should be a Mythical Team candidate.
– Ingrid Sewa + Rodney Brondial = maybe (physically) the toughest frontline in the league.
– Bench depth and consistency are big issues. 

8. University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons

– Cris Ball should put up eye-popping numbers.
– Ricky Dandan is such an awesome coach who will do everything he can to optimize his roster.
– There is not much to optimize in this roster, though.

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