Fernandez admits turning to graduating stars Bolick, Mocon for advice at times

San Beda sought to solidify its hold as dynastic rulers of NCAA men’s basketball. On Monday night, it looked—and played—the part.

The Lions made it a third straight crown after bucking the return of Lyceum star CJ Perez in Game 2 to sweep the Finals. It was the 11th crown for San Beda in 13 seasons and 22nd overall.

And coach Boyet Fernandez said a democratic style of leadership was essential in San Beda’s campaign.

“I would not win a championship without the total collaboration [between] the players and the coaches,” said Fernandez. “In truth, Robert (Bolick), and Javee (Mocon) have been giving me advice.”

Fernandez said that Bolick was instrumental in his decision to field Clint Doliguez as Lyceum was making a rally. Doliguez eventually finished with a season-high 14 points, three rebounds and a steal.

“He came in, then had a turnover right away,” Fernandez said. “But he came back and made a three. He made a rebound. He made a stop.”

The approach paid dividends that night, and it could also bode well for San Beda with Bolick and Mocon graduating as Doliguez gives the Red Lions something to look forward to.

“[W]e’re still going to make things happen at San Beda. We’ll try to find players to replace these two and the other guys who’ll graduate,” Fernandez said.

Even import Donald Tankoua’s services for the next season remain in question as Fernandez revealed that the workhorse Cameroonian big man has been receiving offers to play overseas.

“I know it will be tough replacing [them]. [Their shoes are] too big to fill,” Fernandez noted. “We’ll start early, we’ll prepare early and hopefully we could train our young guys to really step up the way these two guys compete.”

“But rest assured we’re always ready,” he closed.