MANILA, Philippines – As UP braces for the looming departure of its key guards, the Fighting Maroons secured the transfer of former UE Red Warriors guard Rainer Maga.
Maga, who announced his exit from the Red Warriors last April 24 after just one season, will be joining former UE players Rey Remogat and Gani Stevens.
“In the industry l am in, growth and improvement are vital as an individual and as an athlete. My family [and I] have come to a decision where my heart says no but everyone around me says yes,” Maga said in an Instagram post.
“Thank you for everything, UE, from letting me in and taking care of me as a player to building me and shaping me as a person. I am very honored that I was given a chance to represent the greatness of red and white,” he added.
He was one of the key contributors in a UE squad that tried desperately to make the Final Four but crashed and burned in the second round, averaging 8.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists through 15 games.
After falling short of making the playoffs, the Red Warriors parted ways with head coach Jack Santiago, and then hired former Rain or Shine tactician Chris Gavina.
Due to the new UAAP rule, Maga will redshirt one year and will have two years of eligibility starting Season 89 in 2026.
Maga is expected to play a pivotal role for UP as it loses backcourt standouts Gerry Abadiano, Terrence Fortea, and Harold Alarcon after Season 88. – Rappler.com
