Header Ads Widget

Altamirano lauds Khobuntin for leadership in NU win

Glenn Khobuntin, according to Coach Eric Altamirano, provided the much-
needed leadership that gave the NU Bulldogs a spot in the UAAP Final Four.
Ivan Saldajeno
By Ivan Saldajeno

NU coach Eric Altamirano gave praises to Glenn Khobuntin for leading the team to the UAAP Final Four in the pulsating 51-49 win over UE.

Speaking to Dugout after the game, Altamirano said, "Glenn has been a great leader for the team not just this game but for the entire season."

He also cited that the graduating forward does not provide leadership on the court but also off the court.

Altamirano also recalled saying motivating words to Khobuntin during the off-season.

"I told him during summer, 'This is your year. This is your year,'" Altamirano said.

"And true enough, he delivered for us. He never gave up until he had nothing left in his tank," he added, pertaining to Khobuntin's team-high 12-point, six-rebound performance in the game.

Overall, Altramirano lauded his players for showing more hunger to win the match.

It came down to kung sinong mas gusto yung game. I'm very proud of my boys for showing character," he said.

He particularly cited Alfred Aroga, who despite struggling the entire game delivered in the end with the game-winning free throws and the game-saving rebound for the Bulldogs.

"Those are the biggest plays of [our] season," Altamirano thought of Aroga's clutch moments.

He also gave props to UE for showing why the team needed the win.

He said, "I have to say that I have to give it to UE. Kung pwede lang dalawa ang pumasok sa Final Four. I think UE deserves to be in the Final Four. They played their hearts out."

Altamirano, however, downplayed his team's domination against Ateneo in the past two seasons with Bo Perasol mentoring the latter.

Coach Eric, who is 4-0 against Coach Bo so far in the UAAP, said, "Pagdating sa Final Four, wala nang advantage-advantage dyan. Kung sinong mas gustong manalo, yun ang mananalo."

Asked about undergoing two more do-or-die games against the Blue Eagles, who hold a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals, Altamirano replied, "We will be ready."
comments powered by Disqus