After a promising start in NCAA Season 100, winning their first two games, the university of Perpetual Help System-Dalta ended their campaign missing out the final four contention with a 7-11 win-loss record.

Despite an early off-season, Coach Olsen Racela highlighted that the outcome of their campaign is something they can build on for the next season.

“The way we fought today or the way we end it, our season should be parang a springboard for the next year,” Racela said during the exit interviews.

The Altas showed their character in their last game with a come from behind 86-82 victory against Jose Rizal University to wrap up the centennial season on a high note.

“We did not get the result we wanted, but I think season is not a disappointment. Especially with the way these players responded. Hindi sila sanay dun sa mga roles na binigay ko sa kanila,” the multi-titled coach shared.

Composed mostly of rookies, the young Altas squad had to work double-time after the departure of veterans Mark Omega, Art Roque, and Cyrus Nitura before the season started.

“Some of them, hindi sanay maglaro sa malaking stage. Some of them, bangko last time but now they’re given opportunities, and I think yung growth nila this season is what’s meaningful for me as a coach,” he added.

FUTURE

Looking forward to the future, a silver lining for the Altas this year who showed flashes of brilliance is Mark Gojo Cruz.

The Bulacan-native went up straight to the collegiate ranks after bagging the Rookie of the Year plum in the juniors division in Season 99.

Gojo Cruz started all of the Altas 18 games and led the team in scoring with 11.67 points per game along with 5.39 rebounds, and 2.78 assists per game.

“Palagi kong sinasabi sa kanila, the harder you work, the luckier you get… si Gojo (Mark Gojo Cruz) and all the others may have a bright future. And, again, it’s all about hard work. That’s the story of my career at yun ang ise-share ko sa kanila.”

Perpetual’s Team B players who are expected to suit up next season also watched the Altas last game at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.

Among the familiar faces at the back of the Altas bench is 6-foot-2 shooting guard Patrick Sleat who is currently serving his one year residency.

He recently represented the country as part of the Philippines under-23 3x3 national team at the FIBA 3x3 Nation's League in Handan Shi, China.

“I hope the Team B players namin watching get inspired by the way we played,” Racela expressed.