UM Wildcats is expected to be competitive

THE University of Mindanao Wildcats is expected to be competitive for this is their first league since the pandemic.

This was revealed by UM Wildcats head coach Arturo “Jun” Montalban.

The Wildcats will be joining the Inter-Collegiate Division in the ALDU Cup of the Davao del Norte Basketball League (DDNBL).

UM stopped practicing during the pandemic and only resumed with their practice in the last week of August.

“Wala po talaga kasi very strick yung school naming, we started practicing last week pa lang ng August,” said the 38-year-old Montalban.

The Wildcats last joined a league was during the PRISAA (Private Schools Athletic Association) Davao wherein they placed fourth in 2018 before the pandemic.

The Wildcats are now composed of Jake Solarte, 6'4; Jam Gerald Pedida, 5'8; Ralph Santiago, 5'9; Felix Magallon, 5'10; John Ber Soco, 5'9; Dave Solon, 6'0; Cayle Manlimus, 6'0; Jayson Espinosa, 5'9; Geeson Gianan, 6'1; Ivan Lavador, 5’11; Devroe Mamac, 6'2; BJ Sumugat, 5’11; Justin Jake Rosete, 6'3; Miguel Manuel, 5'11; John Carl Aballe, 6'2; Judiah Andoy, 6'0; Wilfred Khim Remollo, 5’9; and Raven Gumban, 5’8.

Team manager and assistant coach is Enzo Nitorreda.

“Half of our line-up is new and half is old,” said Montalban.

Expected to show their wares for the Wildcats are guard Magallon, small forward Manlimus and center Solarte.