NCAA champs feel love away from spotlight

Coach Yuri Escueta

Preseason games often take a backseat when it comes to fanfare in basketball.

Yet, the cheers of the San Beda faithful were more than noticeable Sunday during the team’s battle with St. Benilde in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.

From middle-aged men to children, every point was cheered from the sidelines, never mind if the total fell short in the end.

“That’s how much they love the Red Lions,” Coach Yuri Escueta said after the reigning NCAA champions dropped a 71-69 decision to the Blazers at Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan.

“I think we’re on the right track,” added Escueta. “The important thing now is to stay healthy and keep our minds engaged to whatever we try to do in practice.”

More confidence

Escueta said that the team is not rushing, but aims to build more confidence within the players—as much self-faith as the school’s supporters continue to show the team.

Newbie RC Calimag immediately felt the support of the fans for the Red Lions, not just inside the court, but also outside of it.

“We will give our best,” Calimag said when asked what the fans can expect from the team.

“We will defend the crown and give our best for the [San Beda] community,” he added.

It’s only fitting. After all, when the Red Lions look to their sidelines during a game, preseason or otherwise, they will surely see a friend or two cheering them on. INQ