Thompson, 2 imports boost Altas’ ’15 NC bid

MANILA, Philippines - With MVP Earl Scottie Thompson back next season and a pair of African imports set to backstop the squad, the Perpetual Help Altas are looking forward to surpassing their Final Four stint in the NCAA men’s basketball next year.

A few days after bowing to the San Beda Lions, 75-81, in the semis, the Altas have set their sights next season when Thompson will be joined in by Nigerians Akhueti Bright and Eze Prince.

“It’s sad that we lost in the Final Four this year,” said the 21-year-old Thompson. “But we’re moving on and I’m looking forward to trying to win the NCAA championship next year.”

Thompson has two reasons to be optimistic. With the entry of 6-7 Bright and the 6-11 Prince, the Altas are expected to dominate not only in the paint but the game itself. The two recently powered the Las Piñas-based school to the Fr. Martin Summer Cup championship.

Bright likes to play in the wings, can penetrate, defend and drain outside shots while Prince is an almost immovable force underneath.

“There is no doubt that they (Bright, Prince) are strong players and will be important in our campaign,” said Perpetual coach Aric del Rosario. “I just hope they can blend well with Scottie (Thompson) and the other local players.”

Del Rosario also praised his players for rising to the occasion despite playing with one of the smallest line-ups this season.

“We’re really small this year because we don’t have imports. Next year, it we’ll get bigger, which I’m hoping will help us go farther than the Final 4,” said Del Rosario, who made it to the Final Four the last three seasons, losing all of it to San Beda.

Del Rosario also lauded his seniors Harold Arboleda, Juneric Baloria, Joel Jolangcob and Justine Alano for their leadership.

“I thank my seniors for leading the way and I wish them good luck in their future endeavors,” said Del Rosario, referring to Jolangcob and Alano, who are eyeing to play in the D-League, and Arboleda and Baloria, who are expected to sign contracts with NLEX in the PBA.