Living in every minute of the game has been a key factor in Lyceum of the Philippines University’s successful run in Season 99 National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
Currently in second place with an 8-3 win-loss record, Pirates head coach Gilbert Malabanan said the squad’s alertness and ability to make key substitutions have allowed them to be a force to be reckoned with in the country’s oldest collegiate league.
“My team never gives up. Whenever we enjoy the game, our passes have been crisp and you know where to find the open man,” Malabanan said.
“The good thing is my players respond well. We are unpredictable since you wouldn’t know who will be the hero for us whenever we play.”
Lyceum has been known this season for turning the tide in its favor whenever the fourth quarter starts.
The Pirates’ biggest heist this season was against Arellano University in the first round last 6 October where they clawed back from a 24-point hole to tie the game and force overtime.
Lyceum then went on to win the match, 89-77.
The Pirates’ scoring touch has been golden so far, leading the league with 81.45 points and in bench scoring with 46.82 points.
Lyceum is also in second place in assists with 18.91 assists and in the rebounding department with an average of 48.64 rebounds.
Malabanan said they make the most of the extended break to have stars such as Enoch Valdez and JM Bravo recover ahead of their match against Mapua University on Friday.
“It’s a good thing we have a long break but we won’t stop working. We’ll continue training on 1 and 2 November so we’re going to have to sacrifice that time for our goals,” Malabanan said.
