Abate Returns for Final Season with UE in UAAP Season 88

Photo: UAAP Media Team

John Abate isn’t done yet.

The experienced UE Red Warriors guard has decided to return for his final year of eligibility in UAAP Season 88, reaffirming his commitment to a program that has placed its faith in him.

“I have one more year,” Abate said in an exclusive interview with ALL-STAR Magazine. “UE gave me an opportunity, and I’m going to stick by them because they’re loyal to me. I want to finish my career with them.”

Currently in Jacksonville, Florida, Abate will return to Manila in February to resume practices with the Red Warriors as they prepare for the upcoming UAAP season. His main objective? To leave everything he has on the court.

“Win as much as I can,” he said. “Do the best as I can for myself, my team, and the community.”

UE’s Uncertain Coaching Situation

Abate’s return comes at a crucial time for the UE basketball program, which is still in search of a head coach following Jack Santiago’s departure. The university began interviewing coaching candidates this week, with names like Chris Gavina, Ariel Vanguardia, Boyzie Zamar, and Josh Reyes in the mix. Rain or Shine assistant coach Mike Buendia has also submitted an application, while veteran coach Eric Altamirano withdrew from consideration due to other commitments.

As things stand, Reyes – who previously coached Gilas Youth and served as an assistant on FEU’s title-contending teams in the mid-2010s – is viewed as the frontrunner for the job, according to multiple sources. His extensive experience in the collegiate and professional ranks makes him an appealing choice to lead the Red Warriors back into contention.

Will Precious Momowei Also Return?

UE’s biggest question mark heading into Season 88 is the status of Precious Momowei, the dominant foreign student-athlete who was pivotal in the Red Warriors’ run last season. Momowei is weighing his options amid uncertainty surrounding UE’s coaching direction, making Abate’s return even more significant as a stabilizing force in the team’s leadership.

Asked whether he’ll try to convince his running mate to come back, Abate kept it respectful.

“His decision is ultimately what’s best for him,” he said. “I might text him here and there, but whatever is best for him. That’s my brother on and off the court.”

With Abate locked in and UE’s coaching search nearing its conclusion, the Red Warriors’ offseason is shaping up to be a defining period for their future.