(Part 1 of a series)

UAAP basketball is more exciting and colorful because of the players who battle it out on the hardcourt for the glory of their respective teams. These guys stood up to the challenge of representing their schools, devoting long hours to training, pushing their bodies to the limit, pouring their hearts out. Fullcourtfresh honors them through this as-told-to special, relaying their tales of triumph and defeat, passion and determination, and dreams and resilience. Here are the young guns, the imports, the veterans, the new blood, the heartthrobs, and the standouts that made this season extraordinary for the country’s premier collegiate basketball league. Presenting: THE UAAP CLASS OF 2011. Compiled by Ericka Alcantara, Kat Angco, and Vyn Radovan

The Imports

Albeit far from their native land, Karim Abdul and Emmanuel Mbe have made the Philippines their second home, and have wowed many Filipinos (especially their schoolmates) with their skills on the hardcourt.

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I went to the Philippines for education. UST is a good school. I want to study Engineering, and I’m happy I’m able to do that—I’m now taking up Computer Science.

I’ve been here for two years and four months already, and everything’s been cool and good. Everyone’s so supportive and friendly. I fit very well into the team. UST lacked big men, and I really filled the absence of the big man—our team is complete now. I had to adjust to the style of play here, but I was willing to learn.

One of the best [pieces of] advice I’ve been given is to always stay humble. Thankfully, I was able to adjust and play well as the season progressed. Considering my performance in the first round, I’m happy was able to adjust in the second round and even became one of the contenders for MVP. I can say my rookie year was successful. I did what I could do and I’m happy with that.

My teammates and I are like brothers; we support each other, we count on each other. We’re looking to get more championships—four championships, if you ask me—and we can do that by staying united and by working hard. The UST community can now count on us to do them proud in the UAAP. –Karim Abdul

My move here was a little difficult at first. Everything is new, different from what I’m used to. The hardest part would have to be being away from my people—but I have family here, my teacher and my coach.

I moved here to play basketball, the decision to play for NU came afterwards. Everything has been great. I love everything about my teammates. We watch movies, we’re good friends. Being here has been a great experience. I love my team, I love everybody. I can say I contribute to the team through my height, and by rebounding.

I’m really thankful to the NU fans. I love them, I love way they cheer. I know they love us also. –Emmanuel Mbe