Ever since Alex Compton took the head coaching reins of the Alaska Aces from Luigi Trillo back in 2014, the storied franchise has never missed any playoffs in nine conferences.
But as any other streak, it had to end.
The unfortunate ending of the Aces’ run happened Sunday night, losing to Terrence Romeo and the rejuvenated Globalport Batang Pier in a do-or-die bout for the eighth and last spot of the 2017 Commissioner’s Cup playoffs.
It was a bitter pill to swallow for Alaska as the loss also marked their eighth straight defeat — the longest skid in franchise history. Furthermore, they missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2012 Governor’s Cup.
And, the Aces will miss the trip to the next round for the first time under the 43-year-old Compton.
“This is strange country for me,” admitted the American mentor, with sheer disappointment etched in his face, moments after the Aces’ 107-106 defeat at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“I’m not prepared for this. I didn’t prepare to lose.”
In the game that went down-the-wire, the veteran tactician lamented his side’s poor defensive effort against the Batang Pier, the same old problem that hounded them all throughout the season.
After giving up just 91.6 points per contest last Philippine Cup, the points they are giving up increased to 99.5 points this conference even with Cory Jefferson anchoring the paint.
“I think the number one thing is our defense is a bit MIA and in spurts,” described Compton.
“We typically play really hard and generate some points off our defense and it wasn’t that. It was completely gone.”
But Compton, as always, does not want to make any excuses.
“We just didn’t get it done, and it’s not acceptable. I’m aware of some factors, [but] I care not to share them right now. Any factors I’d share will be deemed excuses. I don’t believe in excuse making, so I won’t make excuses,” he said.
Asked if changes among personnel will take place to help the Aces to turn their fortunes around, Compton declined to comment, iterating that he is not in the position to discuss such matters.
“I don’t believe in punishments like that. I’m not the sole proprietor of the Alaska Aces. I’m the coach. I don’t make GM decisions,” said Compton. “I’m sure we will talk. We don’t lack data or effort in studying film. The things that are readily obvious for us that I won’t share publicly.
“We just have to be better. That’s not acceptable.”
