Key losses: Axel Doromal, Shane Menina, Cade Flores, Travis Mantua
Key holdovers: Danielle Mallari, Lars Sunga, Joshua Abastillas
Season 98 record: 7-11 (6th place)
Arellano University had a team with a lot of promise in the previous season, with an exceptional pool of talents led by the backcourt crew of Axel Doromal, Shane Menina, Travis Mantua, and Kai Oliva as well as the reigning Rookie of the Year in big man Cade Flores.
But the Chiefs fell short of the Final Four, wrapping up their campaign with a 7-11 win-loss card.
This time around, Arellano will have to make do without their old stars, many of whom have either transferred to a different school, moved up to the professional ranks, graduated, or simply decided to forgo their remaining years.
Of the 17-man roster last year, only six remain in Legarda with Danielle Mallari being tasked to be the new captain as he tries to lead a new-look Arellano side alongside big man Joshua Abastillas and support crew of Lars Sunga, Jade Talampas, Mc Jeadan Ongotan, and Troy Valencia.
Among the holdovers, Talampas had the highest averages from Season 98 with 5.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 0.6 steals, 0.4 blocks, and 0.4 assists in 16 games.
And as if the exits of their stars isn't enough, the Chiefs also waved goodbye to seasoned tactician Cholo Martin, who has now been replaced by rising mentor in Chico Manabat.
And Mallari, who is playing his last year this season, admitted that adjusting to a new system is challenging, but said they welcome it as they hope to improve their previous finish.
"So far, so good. We've been truly working hard, practicing six times a week and trying to bring that culture of coach Chico to the team," Mallari told GMA Integrated News.
"At first it was very hard because new coach, new system but right now, I feel like we're doing well and we're doing good. Slowly but surely we are getting there."
Completing Arellano's roster are Kyle Anama, Yuan Camay, John Lorenz Capulong, Dominic Dayrit, Joshua Dela Cruz, Ernest Geronimo, Bryan Rosalin, Felix Villarente, and Ralph Yanes.
Marco Polo Antonio, Charles Lustina, and Kenjie Tan, meanwhile, are listed as reserves.
Despite a totally rejigged squad, Mallari believes they have enough manpower to give other teams a run for their money.
"I feel like we have the tools to be successful this season."
NCAA Season 99 opens on September 24. Watch the games live on GTV.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
