Despite a 2–5 record in the first round, FEU head coach Sean Chambers refuses to waver in his belief that the Tamaraws can stand toe-to-toe with any team — and maybe even make a deep run in UAAP Season 88.
Despite a rocky start to the season, FEU head coach Sean Chambers remains steadfast in his belief that the Tamaraws can compete with anyone in UAAP Season 88.
“We can win now, and I still believe that,” Chambers said.
“I know there are so-called top four teams, but I fear no one — and I don’t want my guys to fear anyone.”
That belief began to pay off as FEU earned its most complete game of the year, ending first round with a commanding romp of UE.
The win put the Tamaraws at 2-5 for seventh place, but the extra win is handy as the Morayta-based squad will enter the second half of the season just two games out of the Final Four.
Jorrick Bautista led a balanced Tamaraws attack against UE with 22 points, with the rest if the starting lineup also in double digits.
[ALSO READ: Jorick Bautista, Janrey Pasaol respond to coach Chambers' challenge in fiery FEU finish to first round]
Even with UE missing Welo Lingolingo and head coach Chris Gavina, Chambers said the game demanded a new mindset for the Tamaraws, who entered as the favorites instead of the underdogs.
“This was probably one of the hardest games we’ve had to play all year. The expectation flipped from us being the underdog to being the team expected to win. Kudos to my guys for stepping up," Chambers said.
For the latter half of the season, Chambers said FEU’s focus is on consistency and composure as the team seek a Final Four appearance for the first time since Season 84.
“I expect us to keep playing good basketball, to improve in the endgame, and to stay ready for anyone,” he said.
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Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022.
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.