ADAMSON University is not yet ready to pack its bag and go on an early Yuletide break.
Soaring Falcons coach Nash Racela said his wards will do whatever it takes to return to the Final Four, including another do-or-die match.
“We’re willing to go through that every year, if that’s our shot to make it to the Final Four. We’re just thankful, really grateful that the Lord blessed us with this win. Alam ko iyon mga players namin really deserve it, because we still have a chance,” Racela said. “It’s something we preach to them. As long as you do your part, you will get rewarded.
“So, I guess, not really perfect, but sabi nga ni coach Tab (Baldwin) we shot really well. Unlike the other game,” he added.
Racela spoke after Adamson dumped Ateneo 69-55 last Saturday night in the final elimination game of the 87th UAAP basketball tournament.
The San Marcelino-based crew wound up with a 6-8 slate after the elims—tied with University of the East.
The Falcons collide with the Red Warriors on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay for the last Final Four slot opposite defending champion and twice-to-beat La Salle.
No. 2 University of the Philippines, also armed with a win-once incentive, will face third seed University of Santo Tomas in the semifinals.
Royce Mantua showed the way for Adamson with 14 points while Mau Anabo, who was just averaging a measly 3.15 points in their first 13 games, chimed in 13 markers on three three-pointers.
Matt Erolon also had 11 and three for the Falcons.
The Blue Eagles kissed their woeful campaign dead last with a 4-10 slate.
Racela will bank on their defensive teeth anew if and when they want to stay alive.
“Well, we were just able to have a session, I guess it really helped us get some confidence by taking those shots. But I guess, more than that, it’s our defense,” he said.
“Iyon naman ang sabi nga namin, it’s our ticket to being competitive as a team, which we missed the last time we played UST. Nawalan tayo ng depensa. But I think we’re back to our old selves.”
