CSB Blazers’ Will Gozum.–NCAA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Reigning MVP Will Gozum said it was tough to see College of St. Benilde suffer a heartbreaking opening loss to Lyceum when he could’ve made a big difference had he been available for his team.
Gozum wasn’t there for the Blazers in their 85-81 setback after serving a one-game suspension following his ejection in Game 3 of last year’s finals.
“I didn’t watch because I was suspended and I couldn’t be in the venue. It was saddening too because there was no live, game wasn’t telecast so I asked for updates from alumni,” said Gozum.
“When I found out that we lost, it was tough because it was our first game so our morale dipped but we quickly huddled up after that.”
Gozum also found a tweet posted by his coach Charles Tiu following the loss that read, “We suck. So overrated” which served as extra motivation for the big man.
“For me, it’s just motivation. It’s nothing personal so we’ll just prove everyone wrong and show that we can compete,” Gozum said.
That’s exactly what happened on Friday with Gozum flashing his MVP form with 18 points and 11 rebounds in his return to push Benilde past Jose Rizal University in overtime, 93-85, in a rugged encounter.
Gozum and the Blazers try to get a streak going against San Beda on Sunday.