Positive Cignal

Coach Boyet Fernandez hopes Cignal-San Beda’s title conquest in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup is a positive sign of things to come for the Red Lions when they go for a title repeat in NCAA Season 93 late this year.

Appointed coach of the Red Lions last December, Fernandez was immediately handed the reins at Cignal following its tieup with San Beda for the D-League.

There was no doubt that the adjustment proved seamless for Fernandez as he guided Cignal to a rousing debut, capped by a 2-1 Finals series victory over Racal Ceramica on Thursday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

“I’m hoping I will carry this success to San Beda,” said Fernandez, who coached NLEX in the PBA until last season. “The most important thing for me right now is to enjoy this one and look forward to the NCAA. My main focus and my main job is to win back-to-back championships for San Beda.”

Fernandez was glad to see some of the Lions rise to the challenge, particularly Javee Mocon and Robert Bolick.

Bolick bagged Most Valuable Player honors in the Aspirants’ Cup. His inspired plays in the Finals helped the Hawkeyes overcome the Tile Masters down the stretch.

“I believe that if I have Bolick in my lineup, a good defensive player plus a very good, intelligent player, I think I have a good and secure backcourt,” said Fernandez. “He made it to the MVP, what can I say for him, he’s really good.”

Mocon saved his best for last, pouring in 25 points in the winner-take-all match, including 14 in the final period.

“I salute Javee (Mocon), he’s been very positive even though he’s not been given much playing time,” said Fernandez. “But again, every time he’s given a chance to play, he stepped up.”