12 teams vie as PG Flex UCBL returns

MANILA, Philippines — The PG Flex Linoleum UCBL Invitational Tournament returns from a two-year hiatus tomorrow with a three-game opening bill at the SGS gym in Quezon City.

For the first time since its birth in 2016, four teams each from the UAAP and NCAA will be taking part in the pre-season tournament as part of their buildups for the coming collegiate season.

A total of 12 teams are competing in the event, and they’re divided into two groups with regular members Olivarez College and Philippine Christian College-Dasmariñas going up against University of the Philippines, Far Eastern University, Jose Rizal University and Emilio Aguinaldo College-EOG in Group A.

Comprising Group B are inaugural champion Centro Escolar University, University of Batangas, National University, Lyceum-Manila, Adamson and University of Perpetual Help Dalta System.

The CEU Scorpions start their title drive against the Altas in the curtain-raiser at 11 a.m., the Olivarez Sea Lions collide with the JRU Heavy Bombers at 1 p.m. then the UB Brahmans take on the Lyceum Pirates at 2:30 p.m.

“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.”

“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.