NCAA Season 92 press conference. Photo by Tristaan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Head coach: Egay Macaraya
Last season: 6-12 (7th place)
Key holdovers: Michael Calisaan, Ryan Costelo, Jerick Fabian
Key losses: coach Rodney Santos, Bradwyn Guinto, Jamil Ortuoste
Key additions: Alvin Baetiong, Alfren Gayosa
New coach Egay Macaraya knows the pressure that comes with handling the San Sebastian men’s basketball team.
“Lahat ng Sebastinian, gusto na rin manalo,” he said.
But Macaraya is patient in his approach as the Golden Stags embark on their Season 92 campaign this year.
“Hindi naman pwedeng i-magic yun eh. It will take time, but I’m hopeful na yung jelling ng team, mapabilis,” he said.
Macaraya introduces a new era for San Sebastian, moving on from the losses of leaders Jamil Ortuoste and Bradwyn Guinto.
In their lieu, Michael Calisaan, Ryan Costelo, and Jerick Fabian are expected to take charge for the young Stags as they hope to exceed expectations following last season’s disappointing run.
“Kailangan ng improvement at pagbabago yung basketball system ng Baste. Rest assured, naka-focus ang mga bata to win every game. Hopefully lang, yung mga rookies will step up para continuous yung flow ng laro namin,” he said.
Since taking over the team earlier this year, Macaraya shared that he has already seen progress from his wards. His goal right now is to develop the winning attitude that has led him to championships in his old teams.
“Yung sistema, nandoon na yun. Ang gusto kong ma-develop sa mga bata is yung attitude nila kung paano manalo,” he said. “I don’t want them to relax and yun ang parati kong sinasabi sa kanila, na we need to have that winning tradition.”
“Gusto kong matutunan namin na may kakayanan kaming manalo.”