As celebrations die down, Mapua awaits next Escamis move
When Clint Escamis reunited with Mapua coach Randy Alcantara two seasons ago, something special started brewing on the horizon.
A high school championship came first, and then on Saturday, the duo was at the forefront of ending more than three decades of heartbreak for the Intramuros-based school when the Cardinals pocketed the NCAA Season 100 men’s basketball title over College of St. Benilde.
And whatever the future holds for this alliance practically forged in blood, Alcantara would certainly be the first one to know. The thing is, he also doesn’t have a clue.
“I badly wanted this championship. All I know is that we have won the title after 33 long years,” Escamis said. “Let’s just first enjoy the moment.
“He (Alcantara) holds great influence in my [basketball career] decisions because he’s my father figure since high school,’’ added Escamis following the Cardinals’ sixth title that came 33 years after the last.
Winning a championship for the Cardinals, the Finals MVP award and last season’s rookie MVP plum, it seems that there’s nothing more to chase for Escamis on the collegiate scene.
Alcantara, one of the heroes of that 1991 Mapua championship, would relish having him back in Season 101 for another title coup. But the coach and father figure in him is certain that bigger opportunities lay ahead for his treasured court general.
But he’s not about to rush Escamis for a decision.
“With our lineup, we’re okay [for next season],” Alcantara said. “But of course, we’ll check on what our MVP’s decision will be.’’
Not same team
The Cardinals will still be formidable come next year with Chris Hubilla, Cyrus Cuenco, JC Recto, Yam Concepcion and Lawrence Mangubat, but will not be as fearsome if Escamis decides to leave.
“We definitely could not have won this without Clint,” Alcantara said. “But after our celebration, we’ll just go back to work and prepare those who will be replacing our graduating players.”
Gifted with a wide array of offensive weapons that the Blazers failed to contain, the 5-foot-10 Escamis could be a relatively easy choice for any ballclub in the pro ranks, much more so to the overseas teams that covet such talent.
Rhenz Abando was the last biggest draw from the NCAA, who brought his talents abroad after leading the Letran Knights to the promised land in Season 97.
With his work ethic and athleticism, Escamis definitely possesses a high market value, a hands-down superior asset to any squad, and yet he stays mum about his future.
