Ateneo Blue Eagles legend Alyssa Valdez keeps a close watch on UAAP Season 87 as she's inspired by the heart and passion teams are showcasing this season.
Despite being busy with the Creamline Cool Smashers and other matters outside the court, Alyssa Valdez remains a passionate observer of UAAP sports and Season 87 has certainly caught her attention.
Known for her dedication and love for team dynamics, Valdez has been particularly impressed by the heart and spirit displayed by various teams across different sports.
"All across [UAAP] sports, they’re all amazing," Valdez told One Sports. "You cannot pinpoint one person kasi each and every game, even basketball, they all deliver talaga."
For Valdez, UAAP’s trademark intensity and camaraderie across sports have never been more evident than this season under the tagline, “Stronger, Better, Together.”
As a former Ateneo star, Valdez admitted a special fondness for her alma mater’s women’s basketball team, which has been making strides in the league.
"Siguro if there’s one team in the UAAP basketball that I’m really proud of, well I’ll be biased also with the Ateneo women’s basketball team kasi they’re really doing well," said Valdez.
The Blue Eagles, led by reigning MVP Kacey Dela Rosa are nearing another Final Four appearance with just a few games left in the elimination round.
Over in men’s basketball, the Creamline superstar also made sure to put some spotlight on the DLSU Green Archers—traditional rivals of her Ateneo Blue Eagles.
But it was the UE Red Warriors that really caught Valdez’s attention this season, especially after their strong run to end the first round.
“The games and performances of the UE men’s basketball team, superb din talaga so very inspiring to all, even to their community,” said Valdez.
But beyond individual teams, Valdez emphasized that the UAAP experience as a whole has been thrilling to watch.
"Grabe. Iba talaga, iba ‘yung UAAP. They’re all putting their hearts out para sa school and para sa mga teammates nila," said Valdez.
With just a few games left before the Final Four, expect more intense action and all-out plays from the teams, hoping to make it to the next round.
(With reports from Jamie Velasco/One Sports Digital)