DESPITE being decimated to just eight players, the Centro Escolar University Scorpions continued its stirring run and reached the best-of-five finals of the 2019 PBA Developmental League.
As we all know, the Scorpions was forced to play with just eight players since the quarterfinals round after expelling seven of its players lined up for alleged involvement in game fixing.
Even with an undermanned roster, the Scorpions were able to topple powerhouse Go For Gold-CSB Scratchers in the quarterfinals and St. Clare College Virtual Reality Saints in the semifinals to reach the championship stage.
Now in the finals, the Scorpions had a shot at hoisting another PBA D-League trophy. But it will not be easy as they will face UAAP champions Cignal-Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles.
Scorpions head coach Frederick Pumaren knew it will be a mighty task for his eight-man crew to beat the well-oiled machine Blue Eagles, which has all the tools to make a run for a third straight UAAP crown later this year.
“We are facing the No. 1 college team in the land. With CEU, I think (probably outside the NCAA and the UAAP) we were able to prove that we can go as far with them, thanks to our basketball program,” said Pumaren
He added: “Just reaching the finals parang nag-champion na kami. Biruin mo seven lang kami tapos umabot pa kami dito. But expect our players to give their best to challenge Ateneo.”
The veteran coach also revealed that he and team officials sat down with the remaining players and reminded them about the importance of sticking to the system and playing their hearts out once the game buzzer sounds.
“I was able to sell them the system kahit undermanned kami at nakaya pa naming manalo. Sabi ko nga sa kanila, when you step on the floor it is all about winning. When the buzzer starts, it’s still five-on-five,” said Pumaren.
Pumaren admitted they have their work cut out for them against the Blue Eagles; anything can happen – including pulling off some victories against the UAAP champs.
“Well right now I don’t have the answer (on how to beat Cignal-Ateneo). We reached this far so maybe we can still pull off some more surprises with the help of some prayers,” ended Pumaren./PN
