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As I settle in to analyze this year's UAAP basketball season, I can't help but feel that electric anticipation that only college basketball brings. Having followed this league for over a decade, I've developed a sixth sense for which teams will rise to the occasion, and this Season 87 promises something truly special. The court is set for what might be the most competitive tournament in recent memory, with several squads showing championship potential even during the preseason matches.

Let me start with what I consider the most compelling storyline - the defending champions looking to prove their dominance wasn't a fluke. Watching their preseason performance reminded me of that TNT game where they led by 24 points in the third quarter only to nearly collapse. That game taught me that even massive leads can evaporate when teams get careless with possession. The champions had six turnovers during their near-meltdown, which almost cost them the game. I've seen this pattern before - teams get comfortable with big leads and forget the fundamentals. That's why I'm particularly watching how the veteran players maintain composure during high-pressure situations this season. My money's on the captains who've been through these battles before to provide that crucial steadying influence when games get tight.

Now, speaking of players to watch, there's this phenomenal rookie from University of Santo Tomas who's been turning heads during practice games. I caught one of their scrimmages last month, and this kid dropped 28 points with remarkable efficiency. What impressed me wasn't just the scoring - it was his basketball IQ that stood out. He reads defenses like a veteran, something you don't often see in first-year players. Then there's the veteran point guard from Ateneo who's entering his final season. I've followed his development since high school, and his transformation into a floor general has been incredible to witness. He averaged 7.2 assists last season, and I'm predicting he'll break the single-season assist record if his teammates can convert those passes.

The dark horse team everyone's sleeping on? In my professional assessment, it's the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. They've quietly built what I consider the deepest bench in the league, with their second unit capable of starting for most other teams. Their coaching staff made some brilliant off-season moves, bringing in a shooting coach from Europe who's completely transformed their three-point percentage from 32% last season to nearly 42% in preseason. That kind of improvement isn't just good - it's championship-level transformation. I've spoken with several coaches who privately admit UP's systematic approach worries them more than any superstar-led team.

What fascinates me about this particular season is how the game has evolved. The analytics movement has finally reached college basketball here, and teams are making smarter decisions based on data. I was reviewing some advanced metrics from last season and discovered that teams that attempted at least 25 three-pointers while holding opponents under 40% shooting from two-point range won nearly 78% of their games. This statistical approach is changing how coaches construct their offenses and defenses. The traditional big man who only operates in the paint is becoming less valuable than versatile forwards who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions.

As we approach opening tip-off, my prediction is that this will be the highest-scoring season in UAAP history. The talent level across all eight teams is more balanced than I've ever seen it, with at least five teams having legitimate championship aspirations. The players are more skilled offensively, the coaching is more sophisticated, and the pace of games has noticeably increased. While I have my personal favorites, the beauty of this season is that any of these top teams could realistically lift the trophy. One thing I know for certain - we're in for an unforgettable basketball spectacle that will have us on the edge of our seats from opening day until the championship finale.