University of Santo Tomas officials were reportedly caught blindsided by Tiger Cubs guard Joaquin Ludovice’s decision to transfer to De La Salle University Green Archers for college instead of joining the UST Growling Tigers.
A team insider told Fastbreak Ludovice did not personally inform his Tiger Cubs coaches about his plans to leave the España-based program, leaving them disappointed by how the situation unfolded.
“Basta umalis na lang at hindi nakipag-usap,” the insider said. “Not even a thank you to (his Tiger Cubs) coaches who helped him.”
The source added that it was Joaquin’s older brother Ivan who eventually sent a message to Tiger Cubs coach Manu Inigo, but only after the decision to transfer to the Green Archers had already been made.
“Nag-message ang kuya niya kay Manu, but that was after nagdesisyon na sila. Blindsided si coach,” the insider added. “Pero kung si Joaquin mismo, wala.”
The source also said Fr. Rodel Cansancio O.P., UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics director, was immediately informed about the development after the message was received to avoid any misunderstanding regarding the coaching staff’s involvement.
Despite the manner of his departure, the insider emphasized that the UST camp remains grateful for Ludovice’s contributions to the Tiger Cubs program.
“Thankful pa rin kami sa naging contributions niya,” the source said. “Still, he should’ve been more forthright.”
The insider clarified that the coaching staff had no intention of preventing Ludovice from pursuing opportunities elsewhere, but admitted that the lack of direct communication left key figures within the program feeling disrespected.
Ludovice, one of the standout guards from UST’s junior basketball program, is expected to bolster the Green Archers’ backcourt moving forward. (By the Staff)
The post UST ‘blindsided’ by Joaquin Ludovice’s move to DLSU first appeared on Fastbreak.
Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots held off Meralco Bolts endgame run to score a 95-89 win in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
After seeing their 19-point edge turned to an 83-84 deficit, the Hotshots tied the a game with a free throw from Jerom Lastimosa before taking an 87-84 edge with a triple from Clint Chapman.
The Bolts trimmed the deficit to 86-87, but Lastimosa converted a layup and drilled two free throws followed by two more freebies from Paul Lee to secure the victory for the Hotshots.
Chapman finished with a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds to go with three assists and a steal as the Hotshots forced a winner-take-all quarterfinals game against the Bolts on Saturday.
Lastimosa and Rome dela Rosa added 17 and 11 markers, respectively, while Ian Sangalang converted timely hits to end up with 10 points and be named Player of the Game for the Hotshots.
Chris Newsome led the way with 23 points, while Marvin Jones and Kier John Quinto added 16 and 11 markers, respectively, for the Bolts, which owns a twice-to-beat incentive for finishing at top four.
The post Magnolia holds off Meralco, forces do-or-die game for semis slot first appeared on Fastbreak.
