Ten months ago, Kriss Gurtiza never imagined that he would once again have the opportunity to wear the red and white colors of Emilio Aguinaldo College.
Gurtiza, along with Ralph Robin, faced suspension from the school during NCAA Season 98 due to violations of team protocols. It was a wake-up call for Gurtiza, leading him to realize that no one is above the rules.
Fortunately, Gurtiza and Robin found a new beginning under the leadership of the Generals’ new head coach, Jerson Cabiltes, who believes in second chances.
“Nung dumating siya, kinausap niya kami. Sabi niya, bibigyan niya kami ng last chance ni Robin,” shared Gurtiza.
“Pinangako ko na I will never take it for granted.”
Gurtiza feels determined to make the most of this opportunity provided by Cabiltes and not let it go to waste.
In their second game of NCAA Season 99, the 6-foot guard from Cavite excelled on both ends of the court.
Gurtiza achieved a career-high with 23 points while limiting Letran’s star player, Kurt Reyson, to just seven points on 1-of-12 shooting from the field.
“Bonus lang yung offense. Ang sabi niya, trabahuin mo si Reyson, siya ang star player ng kabila. Nagulat na lang ako na 23 points ako,” said Gurtiza, who led EAC to its first win over Letran in eight years.
“Sobrang galing ni Reyson. Mahirap i-deny. Talagang all-out lang talaga, binigay ko lahat ng lakas ko sa kanya.”
Experiencing this moment, Gurtiza couldn’t help but express his gratitude for having Coach Jerson in his life.
“Sobrang blessing talaga na dumating si Coach Jerson. May freedom kami na gawin yung gusto namin. Lumalabas lahat ng inensayo namin.”
