Perpetual Help had to navigate a major setback during the offseason when Patrick Sleat, Olsen Racela’s trusted all-around forward since their days at Far Eastern University, decided to forgo his final year of eligibility and turn professional with San Juan.
The departure left a significant hole for the Altas, with Sleat having played a key role in steering Perpetual Help to a Final Four appearance in NCAA Season 101.
But rather than dwell on the loss, Racela and his players used the offseason to prepare for a new-look campaign, with the Altas gradually finding their footing after an opening-day defeat to Letran.
“Noong summer, we adjusted already, and the players knew that it was up to them that we lost six players, but this is their opportunity now. So I think lahat sila they’re just grabbing the opportunity na binigay sa kanila,” said Racela.
Perpetual Help has since built momentum, winning two straight games after beating San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 86-74, on Monday.
The Altas have also received timely contributions from several players who have embraced bigger roles in the absence of their departed veterans.
After Mark Gojo Cruz powered Perpetual Help past Emilio Aguinaldo College last Thursday, LA Casinillo and JM Tulabut took charge against the Stags when San Sebastian threatened to pull off an upset.
“It just shows, I guess, that anyone can step up. I think si Jim Corpuz played quality minutes also today. And like I always tell them, you just have to be ready single every time doesn’t matter kung sino nasa bench and do whatever you can to help the team,” Racela added.
Tulabut led all scorers with 18 points and three rebounds, while Casinillo chipped in 15 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals to help the Altas secure the 86-74 victory.
With Perpetual Help potentially losing another key contributor in JD Pagulayan, who should receive a diagnosis for his injury on Tuesday, the importance of relying on one another has only grown.
For Racela, however, the foundation for that mentality was already laid during the offseason.
“I think the work we put in was done in the summer, and they realized when I told them that we shouldn’t be talking about those who are not here, that we should be focusing on the players that are right here.”
