Coach Topex Robinson believes that La Salle’s UAAP Finals rematch against defending champion University of the Philippines will be an unpredictable series.
Which is odd, considering that Wednesday’s Game 1 marks the third straight time Robinson’s Green Archers and the Fighting Maroons will meet in the championship round. ‘I really don’t know what’s going to happen this time but one thing is for sure, we’re happy to be here,’ Robinson said after steering La Salle to a dramatic 78-73 win over top seed National University in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final Four on Saturday at Araneta Coliseum.
‘When everybody was doubting us or pushing us away, it gave us the motivation to show that we’re capable. As long as we stick together and as long as we keep on thinking about staying together.’
A lot has changed too since the Maroons beat the Archers in Game 3 of the Season 87 Finals.
There’s no Kevin Quiambao or CJ Austria for La Salle and no JD Cagulangan, Francis Lopez, or Quentin Millora-Brown for UP.
This time, La Salle will be led by dynamic guard Jacob Cortez, who delivered a season-high 29 points to eliminate the Bulldogs.
‘I’m just excited. It’s a blessing to go against those guys, especially in the Finals. Playing UP is always exciting for me because there’s that respect factor that makes us play our best,’ said Cortez, who led San Beda to an NCAA title before transferring to La Salle.