Momowei Balances Loyalty to UE with Coaching Uncertainty
Photo Source: Vyn Radovan/ALL-STAR
University of the East (UE) foreign student-athlete Precious Momowei has been a bright spot for the Red Warriors, embodying their return to Final Four contention over the past two seasons. In an exclusive interview with ALL-STAR Magazine, Momowei reiterated his desire to remain with UE, though he also acknowledged that his future may depend on the team’s next head coach.
A Commitment Rooted in Loyalty
When asked about his connection to the Red Warriors, Momowei’s response reflected his unwavering dedication:
“For now and always,” he said during Phenom Championship Clinic’s general assembly on Thursday, January 9.
Momowei is represented by Phenom Sports Management.
While his words convey a deep sense of loyalty, Momowei’s decision to stay is intertwined with the direction the program takes – particularly regarding the hiring of a new head coach.
“I mean, yeah, you know basketball is all about having a good coach of humans,” he said. “We want a good coach, you know. We want to compete, so with the right coach, yeah, I think like in that way I have a chance [to stay].”
The Importance of the Right Leadership
UE’s coaching situation has been a significant point of discussion, with indications that current head coach Jack Santiago and his staff will not return for Season 88. Momowei emphasized the qualities he’s looking for in a new mentor.
“Someone that you can like relate to, you know, just like, basic things and simpleness,” he said. “I mean, everyone wants a good coach, right?”
While he’s open to what the future holds, Momowei expressed gratitude for Santiago and his staff, who guided him during his first two campaigns with the Red Warriors.
“Of course. I love Jack. I love (Assistant) Coach Don [Allado]. I love everybody. They gave me an opportunity. So yeah, of course. I miss them,” he shared.
Reflecting on Season 87
UE’s Season 87 campaign was a rollercoaster, marked by a strong start – a 6-3 record that positioned them as Final Four contenders – before unraveling with five straight losses to close the season. Momowei, who missed one of those final games due to suspension, believes the team’s downfall stemmed from complacency.
“Honestly, I think we missed the Final Four because we were so settled in the second round. I think the first round was okay, but you know, we relaxed. We let it get into our heads,” he admitted.
Despite the disappointment, Momowei remains optimistic about UE’s potential to compete for a Final Four spot in Season 88.
“Of course we can. Yeah, we can,” he declared confidently.
Navigating Temptation
Momowei’s impressive performance has drawn interest from UAAP Final Four contending programs, sources told ALL-STAR, even if transferring would mean sitting out the 2025 season and playing only one year in Season 89. Despite these offers, he’s not easily swayed.
“I have options but [for it to be] flattering, no [it’s not]. It doesn’t flatter me at all,” he said firmly.
His bond with teammate John Abate, who had a breakout season in Season 87, also factors into his decision. According to Momowei, Abate’s return is likely if he stays.
“He’s not going anywhere. I love John, you know, so yeah, he’s coming back. I would like to see him so like I would like one more year,” he shared.
The Road Ahead
While Momowei’s loyalty to the Red Warriors remains strong, his future with UE hinges on the hiring of a coach who can provide the leadership and vision necessary to elevate the team. As the Red Warriors face a critical juncture in their program’s development, retaining one of their most valuable players will depend not just on shared aspirations but on the stability and competitiveness of the system they build.
For now, Precious Momowei’s heart remains with the Red Warriors – but whether it stays there will depend on the choices UE makes in the weeks to come.