By Jean Malanum

LEADER. Earl Jared Abadam of De La Salle University goes for the basket during a game against University of the East in the UAAP 3×3 men’s basketball in the file photo from Season 86. He will lead the Green Archers’ title defense which kicks at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque on Monday (April 28, 2025). (UAAP photo)

MANILA – De La Salle University, led by Earl Jared Abadam, begins its title defense in the UAAP Season 86 3×3 basketball tournament at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque on Monday.

The 6-foot-5 Abadam, the lone holdover from last year’s championship squad, will lead a retooled Green Archers lineup featuring Vhoris Marasigan, Doy Dungo, Jan Clement Macalalag and EJ Golena.

The Green Archers will take on the National University Bulldogs at 2 p.m. and the Adamson University Soaring Falcons at 4:40 p.m.

“Earl’s role will be massive in our title defense, especially with a completely new lineup. As one of the veterans from last year’s championship lineup, he brings invaluable experience, leadership and stability to our team that’s navigating a lot of changes,” La Salle coach Osmund Ng said in a news release Sunday.

In the high school boys’ division, defending champion Far Eastern University starts its campaign against Ateneo de Manila University at 3 p.m., before facing the University of the East at 5 p.m.

The Baby Tamaraws will be led by Veejay Pre, JR Pasaol, Jedric Daa, Adam Nakai and Jayden Jones.

In the women’s division, defending champion University of Santo Tomas will square off with UE at 1 p.m. while NU will meet La Salle at 12:40 p.m.

Competition in the high school girls’ division starts Thursday, featuring UST, National University Nazareth School, De La Salle-Zobel and Ateneo. (PNA)