NCAA: Nostalgia hits Justin Arana as he watches Arellano start off strong

Former Arellano star Justin Arana during the NCAA Season 98 opening day. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Former Arellano star Justin Arana was in attendance in the first game of NCAA Season 98 men’s basketball tournament between the Chiefs and Emilio Aguinaldo College at Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

According to the now-PBA player, watching the NCAA games made him want to compete at the collegiate level again. 

“Actually, watching [the game] makes me want to go back to college. It’s like I want to play here again cause this is where I started,” he said.

The 6-foot-7 big played his last year with the Chiefs last season, winning the Defensive Player of the Year award in the process.

“I am enjoying it but it’s nostalgic because last year I was playing here and now I’m just watching,” he added.

The Camarines Sur native was picked fourth overall by Converge in the 2022 PBA Draft.

Arellano coach Ramon “Cholo” Martin.
Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Arana also commended Arellano head coach Cholo Martin’s defensive tactics for his former team.

“They’re playing well today, especially in rebounding and defense because that’s what’s really needed. It’s where the team starts their momentum,” he said.

Arellano outlasted the Generals, 63-58, to tally its first win of the season.

The Chiefs also outdid EAC in the rebounding department, 55-50, while holding them to just 31.5 percent shooting from the field (23-for-73).