University of the Philippines (UP) is embarking on a 17-day training camp in Serbia to fuel their hunger for back-to-back titles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director Bo Perasol said that more than just honing their skills, it is a way for them to remain driven.

The Fighting Maroons have already left the country last Sunday and will have tune-up matches in Novi Sad and Belgrade against local squads.

“The main thing about our Serbian camp is that it gives us another aspect of the game. We all know how small Serbia is but they’re such a powerhouse, not just in basketball, but also in other sports,” Perasol said.

“And not only basketball, but as far as all the other sports are concerned. You can see how serious they are in what they do.”

The Maroons are expected to go all-out in their foreign camp as they move on from veterans JD Cagulangan, Quentin Millora-Brown, and Francis Lopez.

UP will be bannered by team captain Gerry Abadiano along with veterans Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea, Reyland Torres and Gani Stevens.

Also expected to join the Serbian camp are newcomers James Payosing and Veejay Pre despite not competing in UAAP Season 88.

UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon said the Serbian camp will be a good way for them to bond and improve their chemistry.

“When you're in a different country, it's a different culture. So, it's going to be exciting for us,” Luanzon said.

I. Suing