One-and-done Suerte, UE look to make every game count

Photo from UAAP

MANILA, Philippines—Rey Suerte’s birthday blessings came a little late, but it was still a welcome gift for the University of the East’s graduating guard.

The Red Warriors dispatched Adamson University, 80-74, to start their second round campaign a day after Suerte’s 25th birthday.

“I think we’re slowly getting into momentum and the only thing we have to do is grab it,” said Suerte in Filipino Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

Suerte, who is playing in his first and last year of eligibility in the UAAP, said that the Red Warriors are approaching every game in the second round as if it’s a must win.

UE holds a 3-5 record and is still a very much in play for a Final Four spot.

“Our mindset is we’re treating each game as if it’s our last,” said Suerte, who had 26 points and seven rebounds.

UE’s win over Adamson also marked the team’s first winning streak this season.

The Red Warriors came into the season with little fanfare and that only pushed the team to work harder.

“We want to prove people wrong and we actually use that negativity as our motivation,” said Suerte. “If we let that affect our team then our morale will be lower. What we do is just ignore it.”