Fil-Ams Jason Perkins and Julian Sargent provided La Salle deeper depth when they made their return
There were question marks before the start of the UAAP Season 79 Men’s Basketball Tournament as to whether or not Jason Perkins and Julian Sargent would play for the De La Salle University Green Archers.
Both players were thought to have played their last games in Season 78, as both became the top two picks of the 2016 PBA D-League Draft. Moreover, they were not included in the Green Archers’ 2016 FilOil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup campaign.
But Perkins and Sargent eventually returned to the Green Archers cause, and that decision was vindicated as they ended their La Salle stint as champions.
“I mean it’s not gonna be easy, but we overcame everything.
“We worked together as a team. Ateneo was really good. They had a really good game plan but in the end we just really worked very well as a team,” commented the 25-year-old Sargent.
Alongside Jeron Teng and Thomas Torres, Perkins and Sargent have already finished their playing eligibility in the UAAP. Winning a championship in their final game sure is the best way to bow out.
“I’m so thankful for the people in my life that convinced me to come back and it’s all good. I know God had a life plan for me and this is only another stop he has for me. I’m excited,” said Perkins, who was part of the Mythical Five back in Season 76.
“Words can’t even describe it. I came back. I can’t put into words. Just pure happiness.
“If I would’ve missed it, I would’ve regretted it big time. I mean winning a championship like I said before, you can’t put it into words. It’s the greatest feeling,” echoed Sargent, who scored a total 179 points in his four-year stay in Taft Avenue.
One man said to have played a key role in bringing them back is Green Archers coach Aldin Ayo.
“[The seniors] sacrificed a lot especially Jason and Julian because they joined us late, but still humabol and they were able to help us,” Ayo said.
Sargent, in particular, was thankful for Ayo’s intervention.
Julian Sargent played the role of point guard during that brief spurt
“[Ayo] really leaned towards having the veterans. I really appreciate everything because ever since I came to La Salle, you know blood, sweat and tears for La Salle. I just want to thank him for accepting me to come back,” the 6-foot-3 lock down defender reflected.
As for Perkins, he has a piece of advice for the Green Archers he is going to leave behind.
“Pretty much just use your head. Use your head and use your heart. Anybody and be anybody on any day. That’s the beautiful thing about basketball. It’s about who wants it more,” said Perkins, who averaged 8.91 points in his five-year stay.
Next season’s edition of the Green Archers won’t feature Teng, Torres, Sargent, and Perkins, yet the future looks bright with Ayo still at the helm and recruitment ongoing. Perkins is optimistic about La Salle’s outlook next season.
“La Salle’s gonna be ok. La Salle is a great team. The rookies are amazing. The sophomores are amazing. They’re great and I’m sure they learned a lot from us as well. They can handle themselves. They’ll be good,” suggested Perkins.
Now that the season is over, new questions will be raised over what happens now for both outgoing Green Archers.
“Take a couple days break maybe and then we’ll see. I don’t know yet,” admitted Sargent.
Perkins had the same sentiments. Getting a college degree is a certain goal, then it’s anything goes after that.
“There are other things which make me happy as well so I might try them out too. I’m not too sure. I’m just going to enjoy the night,” he concluded.
A return to the PBA D-League probably beckons for Perkins and Sargent. Whatever happens, though, they leave La Salle and the UAAP with no regrets.
