DLSU-D wins by default against TUP-Manila, fails to enter semis
After preparing for their last game in the 24th Philippine University Games (UNIGAMES), the DLSU-D Men’s Basketball Team won by default after the Technological University of the Philippines-Manila (TUP-M) failed to show up in their battle on October 24 at the University of San Augustin (USA) Extension Campus, Iloilo City.
TUP-M appeared in the venue after the 30-minute allowance, causing the team to be considered at loss by default as declared by the official referee Henly Hermano.
Notwithstanding, the DLSU-D’s Men’s Basketball Team remained unsuccessful to grab a place in the semifinal round due to a 2-2 win-loss record.
In their first game in the elimination round, the Patriot cagers fell short to Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias (CSA-V) Silver Dragons by nine points, 84-93. It was a devastating record in starting the league, but Patriot team captain Kobe Caronongan successfully used their first win against USA, 96-93, as a motivation to encourage his teammates.
However, the winning streak dream vanished as University of Perpetual Help System – Jonelta (UPHS-J) stepped up and trampled DLSU-D by 22 points, 80-102.
Senior players’ vision
Team captain Caronongan shared how he guided his teammates during the tournament, considering having five rookies this academic year, “shine-share ko sa kanila ‘yong mga experience ko lalo na [sa] mga last leagues namin.”
“Nagtutulong–tulong kaming mga seniors para mag-mature ‘yong team namin,” he said.
Graduating players also addressed what rookies need to improve on for next leagues: “[Mag]tiyaga lang, darating din ‘yong time nila na gagaling [din sila],” Patriot Exequiel Jonas De Vera said, while Patriot Justine Kyle Amponin added “[maging] disiplinado [at magkaroon ng maayos na] work ethics.”
Stepping up
Patriot cagers head coach Ephraem Serrano shared that he did not expect winning and getting the title in this tournament. Instead, he initially wanted the players to be exposed in different “levels” of rivals in preparation for upcoming major leagues, such as National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) and Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA).
The head coach ensures that his team’s “immaturity” in the previous games during the UNIGAMES will not be repeated, with hopes that the team soon develops a willing-to-win attitude.
“It all starts sa trainings talaga and having great teammates that always challenge[d] me sa practices. Another reason is my coaches. They trust me a lot kaya it gives me added confidence towards games,” Patriot rookie Bryan Lina, a frequent high pointer, shared on what boosted him to shine in the league.
