Ateneo’s Paolo Medina eyes back-to-back titles under new format of UAAP Esports NBA 2K

Defending UAAP NBA 2K champion Paolo Medina of the Ateneo Blue Eagles is laser-focused on one goal: keeping the crown.

Following his title-clinching victory in last year’s inaugural UAAP esports tournament, Medina is now gearing up to defend Ateneo’s NBA 2K championship as the second season tips off with a new format and fiercer competition.

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“This offseason, we started preparing for ‘Pro-Am,’ but when it was announced that the mode would be ‘Play Now,’ we shifted back to our usual three-times-a-week practice routine,” shared Medina.

“I think what makes this year different is how much we’ve grown together as a team. We’ve gotten better overall, and since this is a team sport now, I really believe we have a strong chance to defend the championship,” he added.

Placed in what he considers a stacked group, Medina knows the road to the championship won’t be easy.

“UP will be very challenging. La Salle—of course—we faced them in the finals last season. FEU and UST are dark horses, and FEU in particular has been preparing for this format for months.”

[ALSO READ: Ateneo's Paolo Medina hopes UAAP considers Pro-Am mode for future NBA 2K tournaments]

To match the level of competition, Ateneo has been participating in various play-now tournaments and friendlies.

“Our coach really made our training camp fulfilling and meaningful. It’s going to be tough, but it’s also going to be fun—for us and for the fans watching.”

While Medina has no plans to pursue a professional esports career, for now, his experience in UAAP Esports has seemingly opened new doors.

“I don’t see myself going pro, but I’d love to try streaming. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do, and being part of UAAP Esports gave me that push,” said Medina.

“Gaming has always been a passion, not a job. I love the competition, I love playing with friends and family. Last year, I never imagined I’d be here—and now, I’m excited to see where this takes me in the next few years.”

[ALSO READ: Game, start: Key takeaways from UAAP's first-ever Esports tournaments]

The group stages of the UAAP Esports NBA 2K will begin on May 7 to 11 and will be held at the Gateway 2 Quantum Skyview.

(With reports from Gillian Trinidad/One Sports Digital)