Can University of the Philippines and National University remove the label of being the league’s whipping boys?

It’s hard, but some think it’s doable.

With key additions to their respective teams, NU and UP coaches believe they can contend this time after finishing tied for seventh to eight places with identical 3-11 records in last year’s edition.

The Diliman-based squad beefed up their roster by acquiring Fil-Canadian Mike Silungan and Joshua Saret who will reinforce veterans Woody Co, Magi Sison, Martin Reyes, Mark Lopez, and Alvin Padilla.

Saret is the same player who made headlines last year when he scored 89 for Jose Rizal University in the junior play of NCAA.

But all eyes will be on Silungan, who completed a two-year residency in order for him to play for the State University.

Silungan’s versatility has boosted the confidence of UP supporters, that this time, they will make it to the semis.

“He (Silungan) understands what's his role in the team. He's a scorer but he creates a lot of opportunities for his teammates," said UP coach Aboy Castro.

With SM executive Hans Sy as their godfather, the Bulldogs, who will be handled by Eric Gonzales, have made big barks in the off-season tournaments with the addition of several blue-chippers from the juniors division.

NU has tapped the services of former Letran Squire Glenn Khobuntin, ex-San Beda Red Cub Yvan Ludovice, erstwhile RP Youth standout Jeoffrey Javillonar, Joseph Eriobu, and Paolo Javelona.

But their biggest acquisition is 6-foot-7 Cameroonian Emmanuel Mbe, who has shown impressive moves in the shaded lane.

He was recruited by the school about two years ago after making stops at several schools such as Emilio Aguinaldo College.

Holdovers from last year are leading scorer Kokoy Hermosisima, Mervin Baloran, Jewel Ponferrada, and Joseph Terso.

"We take pride on defense and that's our main focus this season because we want to become the No. 1 defensive team in the UAAP," said Gonzales, who was once an assistant coach for FEU and San Beda during the time of coach Koy Banal.

UP debuts on Saturday against season host La Salle while NU takes on Adamson the next day, all to be held at the Big Dome.