UAAP: Remogat picks up where he left off, leads UE to victory

UE guard Rey Remogat.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — From being a third-stringer a season before, Noy Remogat proved on Saturday that he can lead the charge for new-look University of the East.

Remogat made his presence known with an impressive 21-point, 10-rebound double-double to power the Red Warriors past University of Santo Tomas, 80-70, in the curtain raise of the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.

“Pinakita ko na hindi lang ako panghuli. Kaya ko ring makauna,” said Remogat.

(I just showed that I can also be a leader and not just someone who’s last in line.)

Remogat’s performance, however, didn’t really come as a surprise after he showed flashes of his brilliance in UE’s final game in Season 85 where he fired 24 points in an overtime victory over La Salle 10 months ago.

The sophomore guard, one of the few holdovers with Abdul Sawat, is embracing the leadership role for the Red Warriors, who have newcomers Precious Momowei and Jack Cruz-Dumont.

“I am just embracing my new role. I am just asking for the Lord’s guidance and following what coach Jack (Santiago) says like the things that I should do for my team,” Remogat said in Filipino.

UE Red Warriors’ Rey Remogat during a game against the UST Growling Tigers in the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Remogat credited the guidance of former UE star Paul Lee, who watched their game and has been joining them in practice.

UE coach Jack Santiago also expressed his gratitude to the Magnolia for giving advice to his players “like an assistant coach.”

“During the offseason, he trained with us thrice a week. He always preaches that point guards should be mature inside the court. You should know when to score and when to pass the ball. That’s what ai always remember from kuya Paul,” he said.

Santiago, who has been coaching UE for the last three seasons and worked as an assistant coach for La Salle in the past, sees a glimpse of JVee Casio in Remogat’s game.

“During the time when I was still working for another school. I can see JVee Casio in his style. He can penetrate, he can orchestrate, and at the same time, given a chance to score, he will score. Court general, something like that,” Santiago said.

“[His performance today] is given. I always tell him that this will be a big season for him. Right now, he is the face of the team. I’m happy because I always preach to him that it’s not only about points but how to manage the rest of the team. He responded well, considering he had a double-double today. Hopefully, he will continue doing that,” he added.

UE battles the University of the Philippines on Wednesday at MOA Arena.