De La Salle University head coach Topex Robinson in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final 4. Photo from UAAP Media.MANILA — After a string of injuries — at one point even facing the possibility of missing the UAAP Season 88 Final 4 — De La Salle University now has the chance to return to the Finals.
Welcoming back Kean Baclaan from his MCL injury after an eight-game absence, the Green Archers showcased their prowess against National University, 87–77, on Wednesday to force a rubber match, a result that left head coach Topex Robinson relieved.
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“It’s a bit hard to make it here. It wasn’t given to us; we earned it, and we earned it together,” shared the one-time UAAP champion mentor, who also recently welcomed Mason Amos back from the same setback.
“It was big losing Kean and Mason together at the start of the season. But we are fortunate that these players are willing to give up their own agenda heading into the season just to contribute,” he added.
Aside from injuries, the Taft-based cagers also had to survive a heated matchup against rival Ateneo de Manila University, 78–72, to avoid complicating their path to the postseason.
For Robinson, being one win away from a third straight Finals appearance is the product of countless sacrifices, and egos being set aside.
“It was hard taking all of these talents,” he said. “Putting them into one basket without the basket cracking. But we’re led by positive players, and it’s a testament to how these guys supported each other during those challenging times.”
“And we could have short-cutted the process, but we did it the right way, not playing players who were not 100%. We’re not gonna compromise these players just to win a few games,” he added.
La Salle could continue reaping the fruits of their labor on Saturday in the decider, and Robinson’s challenge to his team is simple: Don’t underestimate the top-seeded Bulldogs.
“This is the number one team, so we just need to keep our composure because we know they’re gonna fight back,” he said. “The game on Saturday is still going to be tough, so we need to make sure we remain humble given our experiences.”