Goldwin Monteverde expressed pride and gratitude as UP’s “Maroon 5” closed their UAAP careers, leaving behind a historic legacy of five Finals appearances and two championships.
University of the Philippines head coach Goldwin Monteverde expressed gratitude as he bid farewell to his program’s most defining senior class, even after the Fighting Maroons fell short of a championship send-off in UAAP Season 88.
For Monteverde, the end of the road for the celebrated “Maroon 5” was not about the loss, but about everything the group had already given.
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“First, of course, they gave everything. I’ve been with them since not just Season 84, but every practice, every game, I could see them really give their best,” Monteverde said.
“I don’t have anything else to ask from them. For me, I think, in terms of the kind of team they have, of course, it’s good to be with the winners, but I saw how solid they were even after losing.”
A lasting legacy in UP
Graduating seniors Gerry Abadiano, Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea, Reyland Torres and Janjan Felicilda may have missed out on a gold-tinged farewell, but their imprint on UP basketball is unmistakable.
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UP's "Maroon 5" stand together one last time after the UAAP Season 88 Finals. | Photo: UAAP
In five seasons together, the quintet led the Fighting Maroons to five UAAP Finals appearances and two men’s basketball championships.
But as heartbreaking as their exit may be, Monteverde stressed that the true measure of the group went beyond wins.
“Sa akin, I think, in terms of ‘yong klase ng samahan na mayroon sila, well, of course, magandang magkasama kayo sa panalo. But then, for me, the good test is nagkasama rin kami sa panalo at sa talo. And being with them, solid pa rin together,” the multi-titled tactician said.
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Monteverde’s connection with the “Maroon 5” runs deeper than their collegiate success. He has coached them since their high school days at National University-Nazareth School, making their departure especially emotional.
“Very seldom sa coach to have this opportunity to be with a group of guys na since high school kasama mo,” Monteverde said.
“Siyempre ayaw ko namang matalo ngayon. But then, nakasama ko na rin sila sa mga panalo. Wala na akong hihingin pa. I guess, kung may kasama ka sa mga ganoong panahon, sa saya at sa lungkot, talagang mamahalin mo.”
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The UP’s “Maroon 5” will indeed have a beautiful goodbye as one of the most accomplished and beloved groups in the school’s history.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.