UAAP eyes shorter season for SEA Games stint, rebrands Mythical Team to Elite Team

The UAAP is considering shortening its men's basketball tournament to allow student-athletes to participate in the Southeast Asian Games, responding to the request of SEA Games head coach Norman Black.

Discussions are ongoing with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) regarding the potential adjustment of the tournament schedule.

Starting in Season 88, the UAAP will rebrand its Mythical Team as the "Elite Team" to highlight excellence across all varsity sports, inspired by FIBA's "All-Star Five".

This rebranding applies to both team and individual sports, including basketball, volleyball, football, baseball, softball, athletics, swimming, chess, and martial arts.

The selection criteria for the Elite Team remain the same, with the top five student-athletes in statistical points race for basketball earning a spot.

UAAP Season 88 basketball commissioner Jai Reyes also announced the league's alignment with FIBA standards, including the use of international-experienced referees and microphones for assessment.

The men's basketball tournament is set to begin on September 20, with the Far Eastern University Tamaraws facing the Ateneo Blue Eagles, followed by the Adamson Soaring Falcons against the De La Salle University Green Archers.