JAMES Spencer, one of University of the Philippines vital cogs in ending a 36-year UAAP men’s basketball title drought, has committed to the Diliman faithful to return after it fell short of winning two crowns in the same season against Ateneo.

“I intend on coming back,” said the Fil-Australian Spencer on Monday night.

“I’ve been playing with an injury this whole season. I really need to get healthy and assess from there.”

Aside from Spencer, CJ Cansino is expected to suit up next year after missing the entire season due to injury.

The future of Carl Tamayo, another key piece in last May’s title run, with the squad however remains uncertain, weighing his options of going overseas.

After a bruising last nine months, the Fighting Maroons will get a much needed rest to lick the wounds of the Finals loss to the Blue Eagles, ending a six-month reign.

“This is gonna be the first time we’ll have a whole off-season,” said the 22-year-old Spencer.

“I’m sure that will take care of itself. We’re gonna put a lot of work in and I’m sure that’s all the preparation we need to do.”

Zavier Lucero, who suffered a knee injury in Game 2, and Henry Galinato have already used up their playing eligibility for UP.

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Theodore P. Jurado