FIVE big locker rooms for athletes, including one which will be exclusively used by the National University Bulldogs, will be available for competing varsity squads in the 75th University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament, which opens Saturday.

UAAP president Nilo Ocampo of Season 75 host NU announced this among the many amenities to be made available to athletes this year.

A spacious dressing room, a dozen shower stalls and a dozen toilets have been included in each of the dugouts, which competing teams will use during the season.

Ocampo said the experience will match what teams in the United States’ National Basketball Association enjoy.

“This edifice will provide the facilities, which we hope will provide the experience that only those in the NBA have experienced,” said Ocampo.

A fifth dugout is under construction for the exclusive use of the NU Bulldogs. It is different from the other dugouts as it will have its own lounge, where players can sleep and relax.

Around the 14,000-seater Arena, LED displays in the gallery section and upperbox can flash words like, “defense,” “offense” and “three-points” during gametime.

A meet-and-greet room is also available to athletes and coaches, who will be interviewed after every game.

The Arena also has VIP suites for paying sponsors and companies and their employees.

On Saturday, the league will have its opening ceremonies at the SM MOA Arena and it will be the second time in at least three decades that rites will be held outside of the Araneta Coliseum.