Topex Robinson was one of many who was surprised with Lyceum of the Philippines University’s performance so far in NCAA Season 98.
After the first round, the Pirates are sitting comfortably at the two spot with a 7-2 win-loss record just a full game behind College of St. Benilde.
That is why the former Pirates head coach had some advice from the team — especially to current head coach Gilbert Malabanan.
“Nobody expected them to end up number two in this first round,” said Robinson who was one of the commentators in Lyceum’s game against Arellano Univerity. “But, again sabi ko nga kay Coach Gilbert, ‘A lot of things could happen in the second round, you’re still gonna play nine games, and obviously, you’re gonna be one of the barometers of this season, so expect that the teams will play you harder.
“You earned the respect, and now how are you gonna hold on to that respect, and earn it again, it’s gonna be another challenge.”
Lyceum was coming off a 2-7 finish last season, ending up in ninth place.
Turnarounds though are nothing new for the Lyceum program.
Back in Season 92, the Pirates also finished in ninth place with a 6-12 slate.
Behind the vision of Robinson and the all-around talent of CJ Perez, Lyceum went on a blistering 18-0 sweep of Season 93, eventually ending up in second place.
Having experienced the grind of the league from Seasons 91-95, Robinson knows that things will be different for Lyceum. From hunters, the Pirates and the Blazers are now the hunted.
“Basta I told him, I will always tell him what he doesn’t wanna hear because, I’m coming from helping him out, I mean to the best of my abilities. So, sabi ko sa kanya, ‘Di bale na mag away tayo, at least; I say in what I say. It’s up to you how you’re gonna take it,” said Robinson.
“But, again he always asks me for help, so I’m just willing to give him the advice sabi ko nga, yung sinasabi ko will not always be right, but I’m just saying it the way I see it,” he continued.
For his part, Malabanan takes it as advice from a good friend who is just concerned as he seconded what Robinson said.
“Naguusap kami niyan ni Coach Topex. Minsan pag nakakamustahan kami, inaadvican niya ko about dun sa mga small things na nakakatulong naman sa team namin. And I accept it naman,” said Malabanan, who was teammates with Robinson back in 2001 with PBL team Shark Energy Drunk.
“Kasi syempre sabi ko nga meron akong hindi nakikita. The good thing is yung concern ng mga tao sakin.”
