Dela Cruz takes over from Pido

MANILA, Philippines - Segundo “Bong” dela Cruz III, the former star point guard of the UST junior team, has been officially appointed new basketball coach of the Tigers, succeeding now Globalport mentor Pido Jarencio.

“Fr. Rector (Herminio Dagohoy) already appointed coach Bong dela Cruz to be our men’s basketball coach,” said UST representative to the league board Gilda Kamus, who made the announcement yesterday. 

Dela Cruz’s appointment took many by surprise as former assistant coach Ernesto Ballesteros, who was recommended by Jarencio himself, was reported to have the inside track to the coveted post. Others considered were Siot Tanquincen, Gerard Francisco, Benet Palad and Beaujing Acot. 

Dela Cruz was the ace playmaker of the UST late 80s junior team that boasted of twin towers Marlou Aquino and EJ Feihl. They, however, went on to play for the Adamson Falcons in college.

After his appointment, dela Cruz, also a former UAAP junior MVP, said they need to start preparing for the coming UAAP cage season.

“Nothing new in the team, there are players coming back and we’re still recruiting rookies,” said dela Cruz.

Dela Cruz will have the luxury of having the bulk of the team that made it to the UAAP Finals the last two seasons, including Kareem Abdul, Aljon Mariano, Kevin Ferrer, Paolo Pe, Ed Daquioag, Sheak Sheriff, Kim Lo, Kent Lao and Jeepy Faundo.

Louie Vigil and Jon Macasaet, a San Sebastian transferee, are back with the team after sitting it out last year due to injuries.

They will fill the void left by Jeric Teng, Clark Bautista and Roberto Hainga.

Dela Cruz has signified their intention to join the 20th Fr. Martin Summer Cup as part of their UAAP buildup but remained uncommitted to compete in other summer leagues.