By REYNALD MAGALLON
An exciting triple-header featuring some of the best collegiate teams in the country ushers in the return of the PG Flex Linoleum UCBL Invitational Tournament after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic on Sunday, July 17 at the SGS Gym in Quezon City.
For the first time since its birth in 2016, four teams each from UAAP and NCAA headline a competitive 12-team field which will be divided into two groups.
“The UCBL is delighted to be back after about 30 months of hiatus due to the pandemic,” said UCBL President Franklin Evidente. “Still we are very cautious and we will be following all the health protocols during this tournament.
Regular members Olivarez College and Philippine Christian College-Dasmariñas test mettle against UAAP Season 84 champion University of the Philippines along with Far Eastern University, and NCAA schools Jose Rizal University and Emilio Aguinaldo College-EOG in Group A.
Inaugural champion Centro Escolar University, University of Batangas, National University, Lyceum-Manila, Adamson and University of Perpetual Help Dalta System, meanwhile, comprise Group B.
The Scorpions begin their title drive against the Altas in the curtain-raiser at 11 a.m. before an interesting collision between the Olivarez Sea Lions and JRU Heavy Bombers takes centerstage at 1 p.m. Capping off the eventful opening day is a clash between the UB Brahmans and the Lyceum Pirates at 2:30 p.m.
“The UCBL is once again very thankful for the support of PG Flex owner Nelson Guevarra,” said Tournament Director Horacio Lim.
The UCBL plans to stage its 5th regular season this October.
