Embattled UST coach counts the positives after lone win

MANILA, Philippines – As they wrapped up a woeful campaign – the worst in the history of their program – University of Santo Tomas (UST) coach Boy Sablan focused on the bright side and looked ahead to what he believes is a bright future for the Growling Tigers.

UST, which has won 18 men's basketball titles, just avoided a winless campaign on Sunday by beating University of the East (UE), 88-85, in its final elimination round game of Season 80. Regie Basibas shone with 21 points, and Steve Akomo had his best game with 18 points, 20 rebounds, and six blocked shots.

UST coach Boy Sablan is hugged by his players. Arvin Lim, ABS-CBN Sports

Afterward, Sablan – who has won just four games in two seasons as UST's head coach – beamed as he was hugged by his players, and hailed their efforts for their alma mater.

"Siyempre, masaya na hindi kami na-zero," said Sablan, whose squad lost 17 consecutive games since October 2016. "Masaya, kasi hindi kami na-zero."

Sablan noted that even as they lost all their games in the first round – a streak of futility that stretched to 13 contests before their breakthrough against UE – the Growling Tigers never lost hope.

Author: Camille B. Naredo, ABS-CBN News
Full Article: http://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/11/13/17/embattled-ust-coach-counts-the-positives-after-lone-win