UAAP

UAAP Season 87: Maroons vs. Eagles—and the Eraserheads Take Center Stage!

Catch the thrilling UAAP Season 87 opener where the Maroons held the Eagles at bay, while the Eraserheads rocked the arena!

The excitement was palpable this weekend as the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons kicked off UAAP Season 87 with a bang, fending off the spirited challenge from the Ateneo Blue Eagles. With every dunk and three-pointer, fans were treated to a showdown that exemplified the pure talent and determination of both teams. The Maroons, rallied by standout performances from JD Cagulangan, Francis Lopez, and Quentin Millora-Brown, showed that they meant business, delivering a stunning finish that sent the Eagles home flying low.

But the buzz didn’t just stop at the basketball court! The UAAP opening ceremony was a legendary affair, featuring a mini-concert by none other than the iconic Eraserheads. What’s better than watching intense collegiate basketball? Enjoying the nostalgia of seven timeless hits performed live by a band that many consider rock royalty! The crowd erupted as the quadrangle echoed with E-heads classics, bridging the gap between sports and music in a way that only the UAAP can manage.

Adding to the festivities was Ateneo's Paolo Medina, the first-ever UAAP Esports NBA 2K24 champion, who brought attention to the potential for the UAAP to explore a Pro-Am model for esports. His suggestion became a hot topic, showing how the league is evolving beyond traditional sports and recognizing the growing popularity of competitive gaming. Meanwhile, FEU coach Sean Chambers—an experienced PBA import—prepared his young team for their opening game against Adamson, setting short-term goals that aim to build their competitive spirit.

With all the action on and off the court, UAAP Season 87 kicked off in legendary style, pairing sportsmanship with sensational performances. Perhaps no other league could pull off such a marriage of sports and music as seamlessly as UAAP, making this year's season one for the books! Fun fact: This marks the Eraserheads' first-ever performance at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, likely making them the only band to have the honor of facing both fierce opponents and an enthusiastic crowd!

Here’s another interesting tidbit: The UAAP has long been a breeding ground for some of the Philippines' biggest sporting talents, attracting not only players but also musicians who make appearances and perform during these events. So mark your calendars and keep your spirits high—this is just the beginning of an action-packed season!