Lyceum of the Philippines University head coach Gilbert Malabanan credited his big men for holding the fort against a dominant Justin Arana of Arellano University in their 70-66 thrilling win in the NCAA Season 97 on Friday.
Although the 6-foot-7 Arana was able to churn out a monster double-double of 17 points and 24 rebounds, which is the most since Allwell Oraeme' 25 boards in 2016, to go along with four blocks and one assist, the Pirates still came on top.
And Malabanan said the praises should go to his big guns in Jerwyn Guinto, Omar Larupay, and rookie Shawn Umali.
"I'll give credit to my big men, especially Jerwyn Guinto, Omar Larupay, and even Shawn Umali. Actually that's our game plan talaga, pagpapalitin namin 'yung mga big man na magbabantay [kay Arana]," the mentor said.
"I'll give credit to Shawn Umali kasi even though na he's just a rookie, he's a fighter. I hope hindi siya magbago with the way he's playing."
Malabanan stressed that the win over Arellano should bolster their hopes of making it to the play-in tournament with still two assignments left in the elimination.
"We are serious na makapasok kami sa play-in so hindi kami dapat mag-give up ngayon kasi nasa last two games na kami ng eliminations," he added. "And if you want to win, you have to do the work."
Asked if he thinks his team still has a shot in the play-in, Malabanan said: "Of course. Lahat naman ng team kaya pa eh."
—JMB, GMA News
