Ronnie Magsanoc. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Hobbled and depleted, Hapee somehow found a way to pull through in the 2015 PBA D-League Foundation Cup.
As evidenced by the Fresh Fighters’ hard-fought semifinals series against Cebuana Lhuillier, coach Ronnie Magsanoc is beaming with pride with the way the players have carried themselves to once again qualify to the championship series.
“How we were able to get through it is a testament to the audacity of the players. You can see that we’re already drained, but I think the reason why they were challenged is because we’re facing the best team in the conference. In the end, it was all about the heart of the boys to make things happen,” said the Point Laureate at the end of Game 3, where Hapee prevailed, 73-66.
“I’m just thankful that win or lose, they gave their all. And we were blessed with a win so I’m doubly thankful. I never really thought that we’ll get this far.”
Magsanoc expressed his gratitude to the people who helped them get to the Finals, which he thinks is an overachievement for the Fresh Fighters.
“It’s because of the people who helped us get here: the players, the coaches, the management, and even the San Beda team led by coach Jamike (Jarin),” he said.
“It’s a blessing that we were able to cross over to the Finals. My belief is when you’re given a chance, you should be always ready. I don’t know how many second chance was this for the team, but it just goes to prove that you have to work harder to prove something and if you want to attain more, you have to work doubly hard.”
Fortunately for Hapee, Baser Amer, Troy Rosario, and Scottie Thompson will make their way back to the Fresh Fighters bench after winning the gold with the Gilas cadets in the 2015 SEA Games, in time for Game 1 of the Finals on Thursday.
“We will just have to figure things out,” said Magsanoc. “Just making it to the playoffs, it was really a grueling process. Hopefully, the Gilas cadets will rejoin us. Any live body is welcome because we’re really gassed out.” CFC