Jao named new UAAP commish

MANILA, Philippines - Andy Jao has been appointed basketball commissioner for the UAAP’s Season 77 which opens July 12.

“This is to officially announce the appointment of Mr. Andy Jao as basketball commissioner of UAAP Season 77,” said Rod Roque of host University of the East yesterday.

Jao, who was also commissioner three seasons ago, will tap the referees’ group led by veteran cage official Romy Guevarra to work the games.

“I want to work with Romy Guevarra and his group BRASCU. They are doing the NCAA also but they will give us enough men,” said Jao, who served as commissioner of the defunct Philippine Basketball League from 1989 to 1990.

Jao said he will not tolerate any form of hooliganism under his watch.

“I have to ask school officials who are all sportsmen and women to police the ranks and take care of the fans. I believe I can prevail on the coaches and managers to remind their players and staff to conduct themselves properly,” he said.

“I want to be as careful as possible with technical fouls. Still, the teams must respect authority. Hard to reconcile but we will do our best,” Jao also said.

Jao was chosen over a list of big names, including Robert Jaworski, Noli Eala, Joe Lipa, Chino Trinidad, Bong Ramos and Tito Varela.