Meet the new commissioner’s dream team
In just a couple of days, the basketball tournament for UAAP Season 86 will commence. But before one of the country’s most exciting sporting events takes off, the UAAP made a couple of important announcements. The first one was the formal appointment of Xavy Nunag as UAAP basketball commissioner.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena. Along with the arrival of Nunag, the new members of his office were also officially introduced.
Serving as deputy commissioner for women’s and girls’ basketball will be Atty. Mariana Lopa. For only the second time in history, a woman will play this crucial role in the UAAP. Before this, it was Edith Boticario who held the position in Season 82.
"It's nice to be back home in the UAAP. When I was growing up, it was my dream to play in the UAAP. I never thought I'd return as a deputy commissioner. I'm very, very happy and excited," said Atty. Lopa.
The former Ateneo Lady Eagle is also the managing director for a non-profit organization called Girls Got Game. Clearly, her experience and passion for basketball and sports in general will be put to good use as she tackles her new task.
“I believe it's equally important to have someone who has played in the UAAP and is deeply rooted in the women's basketball community because I understand the intricacies of the women's game, the women's tournament and the challenges we face,” she added.
The UAAP also welcomed new deputy commissioner for high school basketball Marvin Bienvenida.
Bienvenida is best known for leading La Salle Greenhills [LSGH] to its first and only NCAA Juniors basketball championship in Season 93. Currently serving as the athletic director of LSGH, he has a clear idea on what he must accomplish, being a part of Nunag's team.
"My goal for the high school boys' tournaments this year is to propagate and reinforce the mission and vision of the commissioner's team throughout all senior competitions, while maintaining or even surpassing that standard in our UAAP participation," Bienvenida revealed.
To complete the stellar cast, Michael Villar was named as the commissioner's team media consultant. Joining him is Lance Mandalano, who will serve as an administration personnel. Their roles will focus on ensuring the smooth operation of all UAAP basketball events.
"Success isn't about delegating tasks, it's about entrusting the right people with the responsibility," said Nunag. "When you have individuals who genuinely love what they do, success becomes not just a goal, but a natural outcome."
Season 86 of the UAAP is set for tipoff this Saturday.
(GM)