MANILA, Philippines–Shortly after helping University of the Philippines claim its second UAAP title in four seasons, Harold Alarcon said he is returning to the Fighting Maroons for his final year.

Alarcon coming back next season is a big boost for UP, especially with the graduation of Finals MVP and fellow guard JD Cagulangan.

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Just like when they won two years ago, Alarcon expects the Maroons to have big targets on their backs in Season 88 as defending champions.

READ: JD Cagulangan to play in Korea after UAAP title win

“Siyempre, next season magiging mahirap yan kasi lahat ng mata nasa amin. Kailangan na namin maging ready,” he said.

The 22-year-old Alarcon had seven points, five rebounds and two assists in the title clincher.

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Alarcon said winning another championship was nothing short of fulfilling not just for himself but more importantly for Cagulangan and one-and-done center Quentin Millora-Brown, who wrapped up their UAAP careers on top.

READ: UP outlasts La Salle to reclaim UAAP men’s basketball title

“Sobrang saya, siyempre galing ka sa talo, ngayon [champion]. Sobrang tapang din namin na harapin yung ganung challenges umabot pa sa Game 3. Halos lahat ng talo namin umabot sa Game 3. Yung mga ganung bagay may dalang takot sa iba, may pangamba pero sa amin hinarap namin. May courage kami,” he said.

“Yung season na ‘to talaga para kay Maimai at QMB,” Alarcon added. “Gusto ko lang maging masaya yung exit nilang dalawa. Kasi madami na silang nabigay sa UP. Si Q, grabe din yung binigay niya kahit ngayong season lang siya nakalaro.”