Arellano University’s first-ever hosting of an NCAA-sanctioned contest did not go as planned for the hosts. And Kent Salado was not even there in the end game to finish the festivities.
The Chiefs ace failed to finish his team’s first home game after his right leg cramped up with 2:56 left in the contest, as the Chiefs were down by eight points, 58-50.
Eventually, Arellano bowed to the San Sebastian Golden Stags, 65-56, in front of their Legarda supporters.
“Nag-cramps ako eh. Di ko na kaya talaga.
“Sabi ko masakit na talaga eh, kaya ‘di na ako nakabalik sa team,” said the 22-year-old.
The Chiefs had a sluggish start, falling by as much as 16 points early in the contest. And that lead proved too be to much, as Arellano could only cut the lead to as low as two points in the final frame.
“Bad start kami saka nagkulang kami sa rebound. Yun din sabi ni coach [Jerry Codinera], wala kaming rebound,” the Cagayan de Oro native admitted, as the Chiefs were out-rebounded 42-53.
“Nag-start na, malambot pa. Kaya ayun, bad start kami.”
Despite the hype of being the first team to have home court advantage this season, the Chiefs ultimately fell short, disappointing the Arellano faithful. And the combo guard is hoping that they can make it up to them as the season progresses.
“Gusto ko lang manalo kasi home court. Pero di ko nga rin masyado iniisip na home court advantage kasi bilog nga ang bola. Gusto ko lang manalo,” Salado expressed.
“Pero okay lang yan, babawi kami.”
By: Danine Cruz
