A more mature and leadership-ready Veejay Pre returns to the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), donning the University of the Philippines (UP) jersey for Season 89.

Pre is raring to get back into action after sitting out one year to complete his residency and suit up for the Fighting Maroons after transferring from Far Eastern University (FEU).

“I guess I have improved in the mental aspect of my game and also matured in taking a leadership role since I’m no longer a rookie. Coming in, I’m one of the veterans on the team,” Pre said in an interview on Sunday’s One Sports UAAP Content Day at the FEU-Diliman Gym.

The Season 87 Rookie of the Year’s arrival solidified UP’s backcourt as the Fighting Maroons rebuild their roster. UP saw the departure of five seniors after last year’s runner-up finish behind De La Salle University.

Pre is bringing in the same energy and firepower he has shown while playing for the Tamaraws two years ago.

“I’m excited and hungry at the same time because I want to help the team become champion once again,” Pre said.

UP coach Goldwin Monteverde is pinning his hopes on Pre alongside holdovers Noy Remogat, Jacob Bayla, Gani Stevens and Sean Alter.

“We’ll work together to win and get the championship. That’s our goal,” the 21-year-old Pre said.

Pre will have his comeback game right on opening day of hostilities on 13 September against University of Santo Tomas at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.