Scottie Thompson’s teachings are playing a huge role in Perpetual’s late Final Four push.
The University of Perpetual Help System DALTA are struggling to re-enter the playoff picture after a slow start to the NCAA Season 99 Seniors Basketball Tournament.
And now, an old Altas hero has returned in the past few weeks to help them learn and find composure in the final stretch of the season.
Scottie Thompson has played a vital role in Perpetual’s preparations over the past few weeks. He’s been acting as a team manager, imparting his wisdom and experience to the young Altas squad.
Head coach Myk Saguiguit acknowledges how important Thompson’s presence has been in turning the Altas’ season around, with young players like Jun Roque and JP Boral learning from the experience Thompson has gained in his long and storied career.
“Malaking bagay yung Scottie Thompson sa amin eh. Scottie Thompson is with us already pag may time siya. Before going to this game tinutukan niya yang mga yan together with the coaches,” shared Saguiguit after their 72-61 beating of Jose Rizal University.
“Si JP Boral, si Jun Roque, they are gaining a lot from Scottie. Aside from that si Chairman (Anthony Jose) Tamayo, hindi nawawalan ng doubt sa team niya. Talagang nandiyan sumusuporta as team namin.”
Saguiguit explained that Thompson’s wisdom has also helped the Perpetual coaching staff. His input has aided Saguiguit and the other coaches in their preparations, especially for Saturday’s matchup with the Heavy Bombers.
“Sa coaching may mga inputs siya eh, may sinsasabi siya sa mga players and everything, even sa aming mga coaches,” shared Saguiguit about the reigning PBA Most Valuable Player.
Thompson has had a minimal role with Perpetual from the beginning, but in recent weeks, he has attended more practices to assist the struggling Altas in their playoff push.
(C) Dennis Abrina
“Matagal na after nung hanging ng jersey niya, meron nang initial role pero hindi pa formalized,” shared the third-year Perpetual head coach.
“Tapos nagattend ng ensayo at sabi ko baka gusto niyang tulungan yung team, kasi maraming matututunan yung players sa iyo experience wise, as a consultant and everything, tapos ngayon siya pa naghahanap ng sponsors sa amin.”
As the PBA season approaches, Saguiguit and the young Perpetual squad are aware that Thompson’s presence will be limited in their last few outings.
They will need to apply what they’ve learned from the veteran guard and turn it into success if they hope to reach the final four once again.
