The University of the Philippines (UP) will be in Novi Sad and Belgrade in Serbia for a 17-day training camp as it plots its back-to-back title bid in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

Fighting Maroons assistant coach said they will have tune-up games there to sharpen their skills and bond with one another.

UP made the announcement Saturday in a press conference that likewise made public its three-year uniform tieup with PUMA .

“A mix of practices, trainings with the coaches there, and also practice games. So, at the same time, as I mentioned earlier, a time to bond with the team,” said Luanzon, who added that head coach Goldwin Monteverde is already in Serbia.

“I believe there is a set of teams that are prepared. There are opponents who have been set beforehand. Who they are in particular, only our handler knows.”

Leading this batch are Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Terrence Fortea, Gani Stevens and Rey Remogat, who will make his debut in Season 88.

Gone are veterans Quentin Millora-Brown, Francis Lopez and Season 87 Finals Most Valuable Player JD Cagulangan.

While collegiate basketball is still a few months away, some schools are already traveling overseas in hopes of getting an edge over the competition.

For one, Ateneo de Manila University and San Beda University are in Malaga, Spain for their camps.

Meanwhile, University of the East head coach Chris Gavina is in the United States conducting tryouts to beef up the roster in time for the UAAP basketball wars.

More than just improving their skills, Luanzon said this Serbian trip is a way for the boys to strengthen their chemistry. I. Suing