Young Anton Lopez is living the dream at Far Eastern University-Diliman.
The 5-foot-9 guard is making the most of his time with the Baby Tamaraws, not only benefiting from the high-quality coaching staff but also gaining valuable insights from the fathers of his teammates.
For Lopez, who grew up and studied at Ernesto Rondon High School in Quezon City, this experience feels like something he could only have dreamed of.
“Mas namomotivate kami. Yung mga dads nila, tinutulungan kami sa training at tinuturuan kami,” shared Lopez, referring to his interactions with renowned former players like Arwind Santos, Marc Pingris, Mark Isip, Denok Miranda, and Marcio Lassiter.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Beyond the coaching, Lopez enjoys the camaraderie with his second-generation teammates, including Mic Pingris, CP Miranda, Krystof Isip, and Montae Lassiter.
“Masaya din sila kasama,” he added, grateful for the friendships he’s formed on and off the court.
Lopez is particularly thankful to FEU Athletic Director Mark Molina, who scouted him and brought him to FEU-Diliman.
Since joining, Lopez has emerged as one of the standouts for the Baby Tamaraws, averaging 11.33 points, 6.67 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.67 steals per game.
And his performances have helped lead the team to a 5-1 record in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Boys’ Tournament.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Tinuturuan nila ako na maging leader. Ako kasi yung second coach sa court, ‘di ba? Lahat sila napagdaanan na nila yun at tinuturuan nila ako paano maging professional din,” Lopez added.
Lopez’s dreams extend beyond basketball. He hopes the sport will provide him with a good education and a brighter future, not just for himself but also for his family.
“First, uunahin ko pag-aaral. Hopefully, makapasok ako sa senior high team din,” the 15-year-old shared.
“Gusto ko tulungan yung pamilya ko talaga.”
With last season’s bitter experience still fresh in his mind, Lopez is laser-focused on giving back to FEU-D by delivering a championship.
“Always be hungry at huwag mangampante. Like last year, akala namin tapos na nung lamang kami tapos na-last shot. Lesson sa amin yun na dala pa namin hanggang ngayon,” he reflected, determined to not repeat past mistakes.
