Cheska Apag had way too much fun leading Adamson University to a 67-60 win over University of the Philippines on Wednesday.
In fact, Apag was called for a technical foul for taunting someone on the Fighting Maroons’ bench after swishing a three-pointer in the third quarter.
As it turned out, however, it was no taunting after all — just some playful looks toward her former coach, who is now the lead assistant of UP, Anton Altamirano.
Altamirano — who assists his father, Eric, with the new-look UP squad — also remains a coach of Apag and fellow Lady Falcons Elaine Etang and Jam Meniano on the Gilas Women 3×3 team.
He was also an assistant in the Adamson women’s program back in Seasons 86 and 87, which began the close relationship between him and the Lady Falcons.
“Bakit kasi ako tumingin doon eh,” Apag said jokingly, recalling the technical foul she picked up.
“Ewan ko, siguro dahil sa closeness nga na meron kami ni Coach Anton. Kasi si Coach Anton din, ibibigay ko talaga sa kanya yung credit kung ano ako now, kasi ang dami kong natutunan under niya. And may mga challenges din na ibinibigay niya sa akin na alam niyang kaya kong lampasan,” she continued, turning serious.
(C) UAAP Season 89 Media Team
Apag delivered a game-high 23 points built on four three-pointers, while Etang followed with 16 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Behind them, Adamson notched its first win in the UAAP Season 89 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament after three tries.
Eric also helps his son, Anton, in the national 3×3 program.
The Lady Falcons opened the season with two straight losses, facing juggernauts NU Lady Bulldogs and UST Growling Tigresses right away.
However, this victory gives Adamson a chance to reset as it continues its bid to reach the Final Four for the third straight season. And earning the win against a very familiar face made it even more meaningful for Apag and Etang.
“Na-hype lang kami kasi, knowing Coach Anton ay naging coach din namin since second year ko sa Adamson, tapos naging coach ko rin siya sa Gilas,” said Apag.
“Actually, yung bonding namin sa 3×3… Grabe yung closeness namin doon eh. So kahit na hindi kami magka-team ngayon, we respect each other pa rin as coach ko siya and as family sa labas,” Etang shared.
