WITH THE addition of PBA legend Alvin Patrimonio in their coaching staff, the UST Growling Tigers are confident of a better campaign in the upcoming UAAP Season 78.
Patrimonio, who joined the team last July, replaced former “big man’s coach” Estong Ballesteros.
The four-time PBA Most Valuable Player told the Varsitarian that he was reluctant at first to accept the job as a trainer. But his close friend Jonjon Villanueva, UST team manager was able to convince “The Captain” to finally agree.
“That time kasi iniisip ko pa kung paano ko sisimulan ‘yung pagtuturo sa kanila (post players) but syempre na-realize ko din na it’s about time to share my knowledge sa post so sinabi ko ita-try ko dito sa UST,” Patrimonio said.
Since his arrival, Patrimonio has seen the big men’s eagerness to learn.
Occasionally deviating from the physical aspects of the game, Patrimonio also instills creativity and anticipation to provide a wide array of weapons for the Tigers, be it on the offensive or defensive end.
“Very important din ‘yung mga techniques kasi the players now rely lang sa strength. Sometimes you have to read your opponent kung anong defense sa ‘yo. Dapat ready rin sila, prepared sa kung ano ‘yung sitwasyon come game time,” said the former national team captain.
Tigers slotman Karim Abdul was thankful for Patrimonio’s lessons. Reserve Jeepy Faundo has also seen improvement in his play since Patrimonio’s arrival.
“Ina-apply ko yung mga tinuturo niya kasi big man din ako so malaking tulong sa ‘kin,” Faundo said.
With the new season just a few weeks away, head coach Bong Dela Cruz believes that the team’s level of preparation and the presence of Patrimonio could bring them back to championship contention.
“Very competitive ‘yung team this season at well-prepared. Nakikita ko na magiging maganda ‘yung result,” Dela Cruz said. Randell Angelo B. Ritumalta
