Jarencio: Growling Tigers still formidable despite Duncil exit

University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers coach Pido Jarencio believes they have an even chance in the upcoming men's basketball tournament of the 70th University Athletics Association of the Philippines' (UAAP) despite the decision of Jojo Duncil to leave the team. "We are in the same boat we were in last year, when no one gave us a second look," Jarencio said, just moments after announcing that he let his former top gun to join the PBA Draft in August. "Last year, we lost Jemal (Vizcarra) to injury after just one game," Jarencio, who steered the Tigers to an improbable championship run in his rookie season on the bench, added. "He was our top gun then, Duncil was supposed to be our top gun now." "So, this situation is nothing new to us." Jarencio explained that Santo Tomas continues to have the tools to compete, with Anthony Espiritu, a reedy streak-shooter who was vital in the Tigers' 2-1 conquest of Ateneo in the Finals last year, assuming the skipper's role. "We have players, like Anthony, who are ready to step up and contribute," the coach said. "It could be a blessing in disguise, because like last year, Duncil was able to step up because Vizcarra was sidelined." Jervy Cruz will remain to be the focal point of the Santo Tomas offense with cunning guard Japs Cuan to quarterback with rookies Perry Scott, Kashim Mizra and Kiko Soriano expected to play major minutes. The 24-year-old Duncil announced his preference to try his luck in the coming PBA Draft in August, joining another UAAP superstar, Ken Bono of Adamson, in skipping the collegiate league's 70th season. Santo Tomas opens defense of its cage title on Sunday, a day after the new season kicks off at the Araneta Coliseum with elaborate opening ceremonies featuring the school's multi-titled Salinggawi Dance Troupe. Jarencio said his players' hearts will continue to be the team's main weapon. "You cannot teach courage, no one can," Jarencio said. "If you believe that you can overcome odds, then half of the battle has already been won." - GMANews.TV