Stags bank on leadership of Fabian to win in Macaraya’s debut

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

It’s a new beginning for San Sebastian and everything will start from its new head coach.

Egay Macaraya, who made a name for himself as a multi-titled coach of Centro Escolar University, has returned to his alma mater to usher in his era for the Golden Stags.

And it all begins with leadership.

“Si Jerick [Fabian] is one of my leaders, but I want everyone to be leaders,” said Macaraya Sunday at San Juan Arena.

In his first NCAA game, Macaraya guided the Golden Stags to a 54-49 squeaker past College of St. Benilde and Fabian has heeded his call to be one of the team’s focal point, not only on the offensive end, but also in the emotional aspect.

Fabian said his new role as one of the team’s leaders starts on the floor.

“Para sa akin, kailangan ko lang dumepensa para sa team, yung adjustment [as a leader] andun na and nakikinig naman lahat, so yung depensa talaga ang puhunan,” said Fabian, who had 12 points to lead the Golden Stags.

Fabian and his cohorts shot a paltry 31 percent from the field while holding the Blazers to 38 percent but it was their rebounding that dictated the game as they took a 47-40 advantage in that department including 20 on the offensive end.

After he’s done proving himself on the floor, Fabian then turns to talking to his teammates to establish his role.

“Vocal naman ako and good thing nakikinig naman sa akin so hindi na ako nahihirapan,” said Fabian.