MANILA – Ilonggo guard Gerry Abadiano of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons considers his recruitment few years ago as the biggest challenge to his young basketball career.
Unlike when he was still with St. Robert’s International Academy Panda Rockets, Abadiano had to earn his spot during his years with Adamson University Baby Falcons and Nazareth School-National University Bullpups.
“It’s a great opportunity to play in Manila but damo gid competition,” Abadiano said in an interview with Sports LANG podcast. “Kung starter ka sa Iloilo, sa Manila you have to earn your spot.”
“Tsaka kapag nasa Manila ka, iba dapat ang mindset. Work hard pirme and give your best always sa game o sa practice,” he added. “Sacrifice is needed to reach your [dreams].”
Now an incoming Fighting Maroons rookie, the former Batang Gilas Pilipinas guard said he is willing to sacrifice to help the team reach their championship goal in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
“Ready ako kung anong role sa team ang ihatag sa akon ni (Fighting Maroons head) coach Bo (Perasol),” the 20-year-old Abadiano said.
“Sa UP kasi, damo scorer o star players kaya kung ano role ko, ubrahon ko. Kung ano ang needs ng team para madaog, I am willing to accept, whether I come on or off-the-bench,” he added./PN
