Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Topex Robinson has always preached about class and respect to their opponents even as Lyceum achieved an 18-0 sweep in the elimination round of the NCAA Season 93 men’s basketball tournament.
And when the Pirates finally lost—a sweep to San Beda in the Finals—it was Robinson who first displayed grace in the face of defeat.
Robinson was quick to give praise to his counterpart Boyet Fernandez, who steered the Red Lions to another championship in his return to the NCAAA
“Coach Boyet made me a better coach, I have so much respect for coach Boyet,” said Robinson after the 92-82 loss in Game 2. “I congratulate the whole program, coach Boyet, and the whole San Beda team. This is their 21st title, credit goes to them.”
Robinson said Fernandez always showed an extra effort when it came to preparing against the Pirates with the San Beda mentor always showing up during Lyceum’s games.
“I really thank him for making me work hard every time we have a game. I see him watching our game and he really earned my respect, not just a coach, but also as a person,” said Robinson whose Pirates were the only team to deal the Red Lions their two losses in the eliminations.
When Robinson called his final timeout of the game with 22.5 seconds remaining, and the final score firmly etched in stone, the 37-year-old Pirate head coach used the time to remind his players to show the Red Lions the respect they deserve.
“What I did in my last timeout, before the celebration happened, I set the timeout to make sure we congratulate San Beda,” said Robinson. “Coach Boyet congratulated me, and I thank him, and at the end of the day it’s really a learning experience for us.”