NAASCU Season 17 slated Aug. 17

MANILA, Philippines — St. Francis of Assisi College, De La Salle University-Araneta and the comebacking Holy Angel University banner a total of 16 teams competing in the upcoming Season 17 of the National Athletics Association of School, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU).

"We have growing number of members specifically in basketball," NAASCU President and Chairman Dr. Jay Adalem said during the weekly PSA Forum at Golden Phoenix Hotel Tuesday.

"We try hard to create a tournament format so that academics will not be a problem," he added.

Holy Angel University was a founding member of the league but took a leave of absence after Season 8. The Angeles City-based university returned last year as a "guest" entry, fielding teams in men's and women's volleyball.

Despite being a rookie team, St. Francis of Assisi College is an early favorite to win the crown in basketball because of their long history.

PBA Stars Ranidel and Yancy de Ocampo, Ervin Sotto and Al Vergara spent their college careers playing for the Doves.

NAASCU’s Season 17 will open on August 17 at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

Defending champions St. Claire College of Caloocan will face Philippine Christian University Dolphins while Out Lady of Fatima University Phoenix will go against City University of Pasay. – Aaron Brennt Eusebio