Rob Ricafort to play for UP after court issues TRO on UAAP ruling

MANILA, Philippines – From #LetRobPlay to #RobWillPlay.

After initially being deemed ineligible to play this season due to age requirements, University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroon Rob Ricafort has obtained a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) that would allow him to play in Season 80, head coach Bo Perasol confirmed on Friday, September 22.

The TRO was issued by Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 19 Judge Marlo Magdoza-Malagar.

The UAAP Board of Trustees (BOT) had earlier affirmed the decision, despite appeals prior to tip-off, that Ricafort is ineligible to play as he will exceed the age limit of 25 throughout the whole season. The cager will turn 25 in January, when the basketball tournament is over.

After securing the TRO from the court, Ricafort will get to play in his first and final season in the collegiate ranks.

(READ: Rob Ricafort continues fighting for college hoops dream)

“Rob Ricafort chose to fight for a chance, for a change. If you know his personal story, you will understand that this is no longer just about ball for him; this is about his life. Playing in the UAAP was his dream. Now it will come true,” Perasol shared in a story published on Ikot.ph.

“Rob took great lengths to assert his rights. The court has spoken,” he added.

The development came a day before UP is scheduled to take on defending champions De La Salle University Green Archers, which will take place on Saturday, September 23 at 4 pm. – Rappler.com