BAPTISM of fire.
University of Santo Tomas ushers in a new era under coach Pido Jarencio when it tackles La Salle today in the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Pre-season Cup.
It’s a much-needed reboot for the Growling Tigers, with Jarencio raring to unveil his new-look squad bannered by former UAAP Mythical Team member Forthsky Padrigao.
But there’s more to watch out for UST, with new recruits Kyle Paranada, Leland Estacio, Chase Lane, and Ice Danting also suiting up.
“Magandang challenge ito para sa mga bata,” Jarencio said.
“Masasabi namin, gutom lahat ito kaya gusto rin namin silang masubukan kontra doon sa mga makakalaban namin,” added Jarencio of the Tigers’ 5 p.m. tiff in the tourney co-presented by Bostik El Heneral and ABC Tile Adhesive, and has Smart Sports, Strong Group Athletics, and Hanes as major sponsors.
For La Salle, it’s a question of how it would bounce back after absorbing a tough 77-89 loss to University of the Philippines back on opening day last Saturday.
Adding to the woes of the Green Archers is Kevin Quiambao’s status, which is day-to-day after his fall late the last time out.
That puts more pressure on the shoulders of Mike Phillips and Jonnel Policarpio to carry the mantle for the reigning UAAP champions in this tilt supported by Tela.com Athletics as official outfitter and Molten as official game ball.
Also set are the clash between debuting Arellano and JRU (0-1) at 9 a.m.; Perpetual (1-0) meeting Letran (0-1) at 11 a.m.; FEU kickstarting its Sean Chambers era vs. Adamson (0-1) at 1 p.m.; and Lyceum (0-1) and San Beda (1-0) locking horns at 3 p.m.
