A year ago, Lance Sabroso was studying at and playing for City of Bogo Science of Arts Academy in the CESAFI.
The then-17 year old guard was facing Cebu’s finest, including Jared Bahay.
However, his season ended in heartbreak after the Trailblazers could not overcome the Magis Eagles in the finals.
But another opportunity opened up for him.
“Nung nasa Cebu ako, iniisip ko lang maglalaro ako dito sa Manila. Blessed ako na nung natapos yung CESAFI, tumawag si Coach Karl (Santos) and Coach Andrew (Estrella) sa ‘kin na kukunin nila ako,” the native of Talisay City said.
“Tapos ginrab ko na rin yung opportunity para rin tulong sa pamilya ko.”
The 5-foot-10 guard has shown no fear in his first few games for University of the East, averaging 11.0 points, 2.2 assists, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game.
More importantly, he along with fellow transferee Kristoper Lagat have led the Junior Warriors to a 2-3 record — right in the thick of things in the UAAP Season 86 Boys’ Basketball Tournament.
“Hindi ko inexpect ‘to,” expressed Sabroso.
“Ako, expected ko naman yung dalawang ‘to. Tried and tested na yung pagiging winner nila,” opined Santos.
“Yung winning nila before, kailangan nila isalin dun sa mga players nila now. Right now, nahawa yung lahat sa dalawa na ito. Now, we have to be consistent.”
Now that he has proven that he belongs, Sabroso is out to lead UE to the Final Four.
“Pagod na kaming matalo. Palaging sinasabi ni coach na pagod na tayong manalo at kailangan namin manalo para matapos yung first round na panalo.”
