MANILA, Philippines – Preseason favorite Arellano University came up short against San Sebastian in their NCAA Season 89 debut, 76-78, but head coach Koy Banal is hoping that they could turn things around quickly.
“My fault. Pag natatalo ang isang team, ang may kasalanan ang coach. We came out flat and we’re all tired in this game,†said Banal.
“Kung meron opening game jitters, itong game na ito yung best example.†He added.
Despite the lackluster effort from the Chiefs, tagged as one of the teams to beat in the preseason, Banal hopes they can bounce back quickly from their loss.
“We hope we can turn things around starting tomorrow in our practice. We have to be smart with our practices at the same time give our players the rest they need,†said the bespectacled coach.
James Forrester, one of the team’s top performers last season, is still recovering from a meniscus tear he sustained in the Chiefs’ preseason preparation, playing only 20 minutes and had a paltry six point-output on 2/11 shooting.
“Hindi pa 100 percent si James (Forrester) pero gusto niya talaga maglaro at pinilit lang talaga yung sarili niya,†said Banal.
Banal also acknowledged the adjustments made by his counterpart in San Sebastian, Topex Robinson, especially on their defense.
“Topex has done a good job with their defensive game plan against us. Medyo na off-balance kami doon. We turned the ball a lot,†said Banal.