Franz Pumaren was alarmed after Globalport’s epic meltdown against Phoenix
The Globalport Batang Pier were on the receiving end of a 26-point meltdown against the Phoenix Fuel Masters last December 28. All the while, head coach Franz Pumaren was on a business trip and was absent from the game.
Upon hearing about the collapse they made, the multi-time UAAP head coach immediately packed his baggage and went straight back to practice.
“Trust me, I wasn’t supposed to be back but I had to rush back because of that game,” Pumaren shared.
“Just for the record, it was a business trip. In fact, management knows about it because I had to talk to some of my suppliers.”
His presence might have been the much-needed boost Terrence Romeo and the Batang Pier needed against the Meralco Bolts. Globalport led by as much as 16 points, 40-24, in the third frame but the Bolts stormed back, eventually tying the game at 74-all early in the final frame.
“Well, historically ganiyan talaga but with this victory, there was a little pressure with our players,” the multi-time UAAP champion mentor said.
“When we stick to our gameplan, we can survive that kind of a plan.”
Globalport eventually survived Meralco’s comeback bid, 97-89, to arrest their two game skid. For Pumaren, he had to come back because he needed to uplift the down spirit of his team.
“I had to cut my trip short because of the loss against Phoenix. I did not want to let my team feel that I abandoned them.
“I had to rush home and it cost me additional. Basta I will get the reimbursement from management,” he quipped. “Anyway, we survived. That’s what is important. Things won’t be easy for us.”
And with a game just separating them for share of second place in the standings, Pumaren has full trust in is team that they can reach that goal.
“Yeah, I think so. Games right now are so unpredictable. Of course we have tough opponents, San Miguel, Rain or Shine, Talk ‘N Text,” the 53-year-old mentor said.
“Of course, it’s free to dream and hopefully we can achieve that.”
