Tamaraws try to stay consistent

MANILA, Philippines – Far Eastern U coach Nash Racela wants his wards, the league-leading Tamaraws, to enter the homestretch of the UAAP Season 78 men’s basketball tournament with the same winning attitude that has brought the team to the top so far.

“Our battlecry going to the next games is to be consistent. I think it’s clear with the players that every game, we try to win regardless of our standing,” said Racela.

The Tams have secured an early Final Four seat with a 10-1 card spiked by nine consecutive victories. They stand a win away from clinching the twice-to-beat incentive.

“I think even up to now, wala pa naman kami sa Top 2 (we’re not really assured of a Top 2 position). We’ll try to continue playing the same way, hopefully build up going to the playoffs,” said Racela.

The players themselves are well aware of the situation.

“We’re happy (to be in the Final Four early) but not satisfied. Medyo kulang pa yung pagiging aggressive ng team (We’re still wanting in terms of aggressiveness),” said Russel Escoto.

The Tams are gearing up for tough showdowns with second-running University of Santo Tomas (Nov. 7) and semis-chasing National U (Nov. 14) and La Salle to end the elims.

“It will be a tough three games. First, UST beat us in the first round. Then NU needs every game, as does La Salle. If you think about it, they need the win more than we do but I’ll try manage that with the players,” said Racela.

FEU will try to make the most out of their 10-day break to get ready for the three tough games.

“We’ll play three straight games before the playoffs and it will be a difficult week for us. We’ll use the break to our advantage,” said the FEU mentor.