Harold Alarcon (No. 18) will now be front and center of the UP game with the departure of its three stars in the background. UAAP MEDIA

Some of the most prominent figures that gave University of the Philippines (UP) two UAAP men’s basketball championships in four years have departed Diliman, leaving the responsibility to defend the throne on the shoulders of what’s left of what was an ultra-talented core.

And coaching staff sees this as the perfect chance to rebuild that nucleus.

“This is the perfect time for us to sort of mix and match our lineups,” assistant coach Christian Luanzon said as the Maroons also kicked off their quest for a third straight FilOil EcoOil Preseason title, effectively starting life without JD Cagulangan, Francis Lopez and Quentin Millora-Brown.

Some of those left to hold the fort are Gerry Abadiano, Harold Alarcon, Reyland Torres and Terrence Fortea and a transferee from University of the East, ex-star Red Warriors guard Rey Remogat.

That would make for a stacked guard lineup, as UP coaching staff shapes a young frontcourt into real Fighting Maroons in time for Season 88 of the country’s premier collegiate league.

“[Seven Gagate and the others] just have to stay ready. Sean [Alter] also is somebody we can mention and obviously Mark [Belmonte] with the departure of Francis [Lopez] and then Aldous [Torculas],” Luanzon said.

Another challenge in UP’s preparation is shutting out the noise surrounding its recruitment of reigning Rookie of the Year Veejay Pre, who bolted out of Morayta and after a day announced his transfer to UP. He will be eligible to play next year.

But the Diliman-based crew continues to have its eyes on the prize despite the distractions.

“It’s just a matter of keeping things tight inside and them sticking together and whatever comes, just face those challenges as a team,” Luanzon said.

Perhaps having the biggest void to fill is Remogat, who will try to replace Cagulangan, the star guard who played hero for UP in those championships. But he is not about to crumble to the pressure that comes with that task.

“I believe that we have different capabilities that we can offer to the team,” said Remogat, who returns after a year of residency. “Whatever I can give, it will be the best for this team and that’s what differentiates me.”