Five years after Lyceum of the Philippines University appeared in the NCAA Season 94 Finals, LPU head coach Gilbert Malabanan has a chance to finish the Pirates' story.
Despite losing to San Beda University in their first game in the Final Four, the Pirates remain alive in NCAA Season 99.
And ahead of the knockout game between the two teams, LPU's former head coach Topex Robinson, who himself is familiar with the Red Lions, handed out some praise for Malabanan.
"I'm so happy for him, whatever it is that I've started there, he's continuing and doing better, way better now," Robinson said on Monday, a day before the NCAA Final Four.
Robinson, back in Season 94, was at the helm of an LPU team that made it to the Finals, but was swept by a mighty San Beda squad.
The former Pirates mentor is just offering support this time around, like when he attended the team's training last Monday, but trusts that Malabanan has what it takes to get the job done.
"I was actually there talking to the team, just being there, just being present for them and making sure that whatever it is that I could help out with, I'll be giving it," he added.
"I'm excited for them. I know it's gonna be challenging for them because I know they're gonna push through because they also have a good coach, Gilbert Malabanan."
Robinson also said he is also particularly happy with the development of Enoch Valdez.
"I'm just so happy that he grew into the player that he is," Robinson said. "I'm excited for him."
LPU's do-or-die game against San Beda will be played on Friday afternoon at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
