At 0-3, Chongson admits Red Warriors still ‘work in progress’

MANILA, Philippines—It’s still early in the UAAP Season 82 men’s basketball tournament but University of the East is already feeling the distress in its campaign.

The Red Warriors are at the eighth seed in the tournament at 0-3 and their 91-80 loss to Adamson University didn’t feature big man Alex Diakhite, who is still confined at University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medican Center.

Active Consultant Lawrence Chongson is adamant that they’re in it for the wins and not for the moral victories often handed to teams of lesser talent during losses.

“We’re a work in progress, but rest assured we’re giving it our best shot and our best effort,” said Chongson Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum. “We’re holding no punches and we’re still trying to go for wins, not moral victories.”

“With or without imports, with whoever’s playing or who’s not, we’re really aiming to win. Hopefully soon.”

Diakhite is still under observation at the medical facility for urinary track infection and possible dengue after his platelet count continued to drop since UE’s 81-65 loss to FEU on Sunday.

Without Diakhite to man the paint, the big man put up 21 points and 15 rebounds against the Tamaraws, the Red Warriors were outrebounded 59-45 and 22-11 under the offensive glass.

“I suppose next game he’ll [Diakhite] will be able to play, we just wanted to make sure for today and we want him to fully recover,” said Chongson.