University of the Philippines continues its buildup as it recruited 6-foot-7 slotman Gani Stevens for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men's basketball tournament.

In a statement, the Fighting Maroons stressed that Stevens had already agreed to join them, forming a triple-tower that also features 6-foot-7 Luis Pablo and 6-foot-8 Gagate, who both came from La Salle Green Hills, with swingman Francis Lopez providing firepower.

Stevens, however, will have to serve a one-year residency and will be deployed starting Season 87 in 2024 as he already played one season with the University of the East, where he averaged 9.36 points, 6.29 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game in the previous season.

By then, he will have the lion's share of the minutes as reigning Most Valuable Player Malick Diouf had already exhausted his playing year.

Stevens' recruitment was a fitting birthday gift for UP coach Goldwin Monteverde, who turned 52 on Tuesday, as it will give them a chance to field a solid team in the years to come.

"We already love what we have right now with the likes of Francis, Seven, and Luis. Adding another young, hardworking center in Gani will certainly give us more versatility in our frontcourt as we continue to build our program in the seasons to come," Monteverde said.

UP basketball director Bo Perasol said they are doing their best to make sure that fresh talent will be available to play for the Maroons, especially after big man Carl Tamayo forfeited his last playing year to compete in the Japan B. League with the Ryukyu Golden Kings.

"It's now rare for players to use all of their five playing years so we want to be prepared whenever one of our players plays well then they get offers to play internationally or in the professional ranks," Perasol said.

"We're happy and proud of Carl but at the same time, we have to be secure with our program."

Team manager Atty. Aga Uvero also couldn't wait to see Stevens suit up for UP as it guns for its fourth UAAP title.

"We're excited to add another promising talent in Gani. We're sure that he can contribute to the winning tradition we've established and hope to continue," Uvero said.