The Green Archers weren't able to reach the Final Four in UAAP Season 85.
Kevin Quiambao of the De La Salle Green Archers is a rookie no more, and he's taking the lessons of UAAP Season 85 to heart.
For one thing, the reigning Rookie of the Year has to learn to keep his emotions on lock.
"Kailangan ko maging kalmado," Quiambao told the UAAP Varsity Channel. "Last season, excited ako every game."
He's taking better care of himself too after testing positive for COVID-19 in the later half of Season 85.
"Sabi ko sa sarili ko, 'di na pwede ulit mangyari sa'kin 'yun," Quiambao vowed, mentioning how he diligently takes multivitamins.
The Green Archers finished the elimination round with a 7-7 record, but fell to the Adamson Soaring Falcons in the play-off for the Final Four. This time, La Salle is looking to change its fortune with Topex Robinson replacing Derrick Pumaren as coach.
And players have already taken a shine to him.
"Parang daddy mo na outside and inside the court. Ginagabayan niya kami," Quiambao said.
"Siya yung tipong players' coach. Alam niya kung ano 'yung pinagdadaanan mo, siya 'yung malalapitan mo sa oras ng gipitan."
But there's one thing that Quiambao really admires about the former tactician for the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters and Lyceum Pirates.
"'Yung tiwala niya, sobrang laki. Sobrang 'di mama-match ng ibang tao," Quiambao said.
"Hinahayaan niyang maging ikaw kung ano yung gusto mo."
Fans of the Green Archers will see whether that trust bears fruit in UAAP Season 86 starting September 30. The games will be shown on One Sports, the UAAP Varsity Channel, and the Pilipinas Live app.
(With reports from Julio Gabriel, One Sports Digital)
(GM)