EXPLOSIVE START
The opening week of NCAA Season 101 brought with it the usual mix of jitters, breakthroughs and early reality checks.
For Jose Rizal University’s Nani Epondulan, his coaching debut ended with a smile. The new tactician steered the Heavy Bombers past perennial contender Letran, 73-69, at San Juan Arena on Friday, a much-needed confidence boost for a squad that languished at the cellar last year.
He may be a rookie coach, but he’s been around the league enough to know an opening win isn’t something to get excited about.
“This is just our first game so there are barely any scouting reports [about us],” Epondulan said after the victory, which came after a strong performance by Justin Lozano.
“I knew [Lozano’s] capabilities from day one,” the former JRU star said. “I saw that he’ll click in my system. The good thing with him is he can shoot the long bombs, which worked to our advantage.”
Lozano backed his coach’s faith with 17 points, including three triples, while Sean Salvador added 10 to give JRU a promising start under its new leader.
Perpetual Help, meanwhile, rode the energy of a fresh face. Forward Patrick Sleat announced his arrival with a well-rounded 10-point, five-assist, four-rebound performance in the Altas’ 67-54 victory over San Sebastian.
“I was so excited I even slept early last night because I couldn’t wait,” Sleat admitted with a laugh. “Maybe in the next game, though, I’ll try to control my emotions so I can be more composed inside the court.”
Sleat, who previously played under Perpetual coach Olsen Racela at Far Eastern University, admitted the atmosphere of his NCAA debut rattled him at first.
“The atmosphere earlier shocked me because it didn’t sink in for me that I’m already playing in the NCAA now,” he said. Still, he steadied himself and helped Perps join Mapua atop Group A.
College of St. Benilde, meanwhile, is hoping to bounce back after a frustrating start to its season last Wednesday. Coming off a Finals appearance last season, the Blazers fell to defending champion San Beda, 96-85, at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Coach Charles Tiu didn’t hold back after the loss, calling out two of his prized recruits.
“I think Shawn (Umali) played very bad. Four fouls in six minutes. I told him I can’t use you if you keep fouling like that,” Tiu said. “SJ’s (Moore) been a work in progress. I like what he brings to the table. I just didn’t think this was a good game for him but he’ll be ready next game.”
