It was apparent with how graduating University of Santo Tomas guard Louie Vigil answered questions from the media; the wounds of the UAAP Season 78 Finals were still open and all the off-season drama was the salt that made the pain linger longer.
The Growling Tigers lost in heartbreaking fashion in Game Three of the Finals, its third finals loss in four years. Just weeks after, controversy plagued the program with allegations of game-fixing and physical harassment of players resulting in the firing of then head coach Bong Dela Cruz.
Vigil was not spared from drama, almost being deemed ineligible due to a rule change that lowered the maximum age for athletes in the UAAP. The streaky scorer, who played for the Tanduay Rhum Masters in the PBA D-League, was only named eligible last month after the UAAP board rescinded its ruling.
Despite all the hurdles, the Tigers have come together and are ready to face a new era starting this Season 79.
“This team has been through a lot of drama – from management down to the players. I think we’ve overcome these problems.
“I’m proud of the team. I think we’re ready for the season,” said this year’s King Tiger Vigil.
Losing marquee players Ed Daquiaog, Kevin Ferrer, and Karim Abdul, the Growling Tigers have several roles to fill and Vigil thinks they have personnel raring to prove that they can step up immediately.
“We’re a hungry team. We have a lot of players who want to prove something and earn their spot sa system namin.
“Sa ngayon, hindi ko pa masasabi kung sino ‘yung gagawa sa amin. But I can guarantee that every game may mga players kayong makikitang magstep-up sa team,” the 24-year old combo guard said.
If pundits and fans have low expectations for the Tigers this year, Vigil is confidently determined to get back to the Finals and avenge Season 78.
“Realistically? Finals,” Vigil said briefly when asked where he thought the Tigers will get this season.
