Quezon City: Defending champions Ateneo de Manila University and University of the East have commenced their respective title-retention campaigns in the UAAP Esports tournament, held at the Quantum Skyview Deck, Gateway 2 Mall.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Blue Eagles faced off against the De La Salle University Green Archers in the NBA 2K category at 2:30 p.m. Paolo Medina, who played a pivotal role in leading Ateneo to victory in the previous season, expressed the team’s determination to secure back-to-back titles. He emphasized their commitment to adapting to the new team-style format, which he believes will make them formidable contenders.

Ateneo and La Salle are grouped together in Group A, alongside Far Eastern University and University of the Philippines. Group B comprises Adamson University, National University, University of Santo Tomas, and University of the East.

In the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) competition, which began at 6:15 p.m., UE’s Zenith Esports faced UP. Despite playing without a coach and retaining the same lineup as last season, team captain John Zel Bartolo acknowledged the increased level of competition. He noted that many teams have bolstered their rosters by recruiting high-caliber players from other schools, including those with professional experience.

Group A for MLBB includes UE, UP, La Salle, and National University. Meanwhile, Adamson, Ateneo, FEU, and UST make up Group B. The group stage for both NBA 2K and MLBB is set to run from May 13 to 15, with a single round-robin, best-of-three format. The top two teams from each group will advance to the crossover semifinals on May 16, culminating in the championship match on the same day.