UAAP: Ateneo hymn brings back memories, but Padrigao focused on UST

UST player Forthsky Padrigao and Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin hug it out after their UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball clash. UST beat Ateneo 74-64. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIREr.net

MANILA, Philippines — The last time Forthsky Padrigao sang the Ateneo hymn, he helped the Blue Eagles rule the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament two years ago after beating the University of the Philippines in Finals Game 3.

That turned out to be his final stint with the school, and two years later, Padrigao anchored his new school University of Santo Tomas in ending a 17-game losing streak to Ateneo, 74-64, for a 2-0 start in Season 87 on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The new UST point guard felt a sense of nostalgia after hearing his school hymn again two years after his departure but he remained locked in to move forward with the Growling Tigers. 

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 87 basketball

“I’m happy because the last time I sang it, we won a UAAP championship, so it brings back those memories. But now, I have to move forward with my new team, UST. They’ve welcomed me with open arms, and I’m just going to focus on doing my job,” said Padrigao, who tallied six points, three rebounds, and nine assists.

The former UAAP mythical team member kept his focus all game while battling his former squad, helping UST end a nine-year winning drought since Season 78 last September  26, 2015.

“Actually, we had no idea about the record of consecutive losses. We just really prepared for Ateneo because, coming from there, I know how hard they also prepared, so Ateneo is not an easy opponent,” said Padrigao. “That’s all we did — we just prepared and focused on the game.”

READ: UAAP: Forthsky Padrigao hopes to help UST build winning culture

UST’s impressive 2-0 start — matching its total wins last year — is not yet enough to gauge its title chances this year but Padrigao is sure they can compete against strong teams this season. 

“It’s only been two games. Although we won, we’re still far from reality. It’s really too early to tell,  Padrigao said. 

“What I learned from this game is that we can compete against stronger teams. I trust my teammates because I know how hard they prepare, they’re locked in and focused. It’s not surprising to me that they’re performing well because I can see how hard they prepare.”