After a journey that saw him play for University of the Philippines and bid farewell last year for a one-and-done stint at his home, Cyril Gonzales finally returned to his roots with Mapúa University — last suiting up for the Cardinals back in NCAA Season 95.
Armed with lessons from his UAAP stint under Goldwin Monteverde at UP, the 25-year-old guard made an immediate impact in NCAA Season 101, helping Mapúa edge Lyceum in a thrilling double-overtime battle, 90-89, on opening night.
“Sobrang exciting at sobrang masarap sa pakiramdam kasi isang taon din ako nag-antay,” Gonzales said after the game, recalling the emotions of suiting up once more for the Cardinals.
“Nabibigla ako minsan pag sumisigaw yung crowd, tumatayo balahibo ko. Para kong nasa UP din. Masaya.”
The 6-foot guard from Samal finished with 11 points and five steals, showcasing the maturity and defensive discipline he honed during his time in the UAAP.
“Siguro yung mag-stick sa system, siyempre sa system ni Coach Gold pati ni Coach Randy (Alcantara). Galing ako sa UP, dumedepensa ako, kaya yun din ang natutunan ko — kung sino man itapat sa’kin, kailangan depensahan ko, i-stop ko,” Gonzales said.
Despite the victory, Gonzales admitted he was caught off guard by the wave of yellow shirts cheering for him, a stark contrast to his rookie years when the crowd was sparse.
“Gusto ko magpasalamat sa Mapúa, grabe sobrang daming tao. Di ko inexpect,” he said.
“Kasi nung time ko nasa Mapúa ako sobrang onti lang nanonood. Ngayon sobrang daming naka-yellow, sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam. Sana patuloy kayong sumuporta sa Mapúa at sa’kin.”
