Former Philippine Basketball Association import Sean Chambers is ready to take on the challenge of turning the Far Eastern University men’s basketball team’s fortunes around in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
Since taking over as head coach of the Tamaraws, who are looking to end a two-year Final Four drought, Chambers believes in the potential of the rebuilding squad.
But the six-time PBA champion and former PBA Best Import knows that a lot of work has to be done.
“So far, I’ve been able to attend three practices and I’m just trying to get to know the players. Getting to know the ins and outs of the UAAP,” the 59-year-old former Alaska reinforcement said.
“I have a bit of a learning curve to know what’s successful and what’s gonna be successful here.”
Chambers replaced Denok Miranda, who stepped aside to assume a deputy role.
Under Miranda, FEU finished Season 86 in seventh place with only three wins in 14 outings.
Known for his winning attitude proven by his leadership in helping the then Tim Cone-mentored Alaska squad win numerous titles, Chambers vows to bring back the 20-time UAAP champions Tamaraws to their former glory.
“I promised the guys, I’m not called ‘Mr. 100 percent’ just by accident. I guarantee that I’m going to be the hardest-working coach in the UAAP,” Chambers said.
“Nothing to take away from the current coaches who are here, but I just know what’s in my court, and what’s in my court is to give 110 percent on whatever I do.”
But the American mentor is keeping a realistic approach as he tries to reenergize FEU’s basketball program.
“I’m trying to curb my expectations, but I don’t expect the turnaround to take that long. I want to have an instant impact on so many different levels, and I think we can do that. Just minor details, fundamentals of the game, and playing for one another,” he said.
Chambers will try to bring change to the Tamaraws, who saw the departure of seniors L-Jay Gonzales and Patrick Sleat after last season, hinged on reliable holdovers Cholo Anonuevo and Xyrus Torres.
Before joining FEU, Chambers tried to land a coaching job at University of Santo Tomas four years ago.
“I’m very grateful to be back in the Philippines. I’m honored, humbled, and a little anxious about the whole experience. It’s been a dream of mine to come back to the Philippines and have some impact on the game of basketball,” he said.
And coaching college basketball has always been a dream for the former Fern Bacon Middle School Dean of Students.
“Being in the UAAP has always been a dream. I don’t think I’ve ever really thought of coaching in the PBA. I love helping out, but not ever did I have the desire to be a PBA coach,” Chambers said.
