University of the Philippines’ women’s basketball team achieved its fifth consecutive victory in as many games after defeating University of Santo Tomas, 73-69, in overtime last Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
This accomplishment — going 5-0 — last occurred in UAAP Season 71, with the crafty winger Sai Sadorra and a commanding inside presence in Fatz Tolentino, among others.
Interestingly, the current team also possesses such talents, with additions like Filipino-French winger Louna Ozar and Nigerian center Favour Onoh.
However, the similarities don’t end there, as stated by the current head coach, Paul Ramos.
“The attitude and the team culture remain the same. I experienced that and I’m glad to be part of that time back in the day, around 2008, I believe. Back in those days, they had the same determination, the same fire in their eyes as I see in the girls now,” said the lead deputy to head coach Eric Castro during Season 71.
“That has also fueled our performance this season,” added Ramos.
According to the youthful coach, they always strive to learn from past experiences, and that is what has brought them to where they are today—not only from the highs but also through the lows.
Ramos explained, “In the end, who we are now is a result of who we were before. We learned from those experiences, and now we are trying to apply the positives of what we’ve learned.”
The same lesson inspired a Paul Ramos-coached UP team to a breakthrough victory against decorated easoned coach Haydee Ong and the Growling Tigresses.
Ramos commented, “Since the start of our campaign, I hadn’t beaten Coach Haydee yet. Coach Haydee’s program is highly commendable, and I feel like they brought out the best in these girls and us coaches.”
Now, the Fighting Maroons are looking forward to another match against De La Salle University on Wednesday, aiming to surpass what the Season 71 squad achieved with a sixth straight win.
