Season 91 finish: Seventh place
Elimination round record: 6-12
Point differential: -5
Losses: Bradwyn Guinto, Jamil Ortuoste, Spencer Pretta, Jeffrey Santos, Jess Sibal, Genmar Bragais, Domenick Vera
Premier Cup record: Eliminated via quotient (Elimination Round)
Additions: Alfren Gayosa, Regille Ilagan, McKevin Johnson, Mervid Miguel, Bryan Quipse, Chester Serajosef, Ian Valdez, Earvin Alvarez, JM Calma
Assessment
For this season, the San Sebastian Golden Stags will have champion coach Egay Macaraya manning the sidelines. Can he work his magic on Baste just like he did for CEU in the NAASCU?
Taking a look at the composition of the Stags for Season 92, their core remained largely intact. The difference this year, however, is that Michael Calisaan will carry bigger responsibilities for the team, as well as the likes of last year’s holdovers in Jerick Fabian, Ryan Costelo and Allan Capobres.
Also, the Golden Stags must find a way to replace the production of Jamil Ortuoste and Bradwyn Guinto. Ortuoste had been their floor general last season; the pressure is now on Costelo and his backup Ian Valdez to replicate the playmaking and scoring punch that the former had provided.
Moving over to the team’s frontcourt, the likes of Alvin Baetiong, Justin Mercado, Mckevin Johnson must do their best to clog up the paint and box out for rebounds just as Guinto had done last season. If Baste’s centers play well, it will ease off the pressure for Calisaan to play heavy minutes and let him focus more on his perimeter game.
With Macaraya known to be a defensive-minded coach, expect this Golden Stags squad to give opposing teams a big fight on a constant basis. Having won titles in leagues like the NAASCU and the PBA D-League, Macaraya knows how to win, and his teachings will surely benefit this young San Sebastian squad brimming with potential.
They may not be championship contenders yet, but for sure, the glory days of San Sebastian may soon be back with Macaraya’s guidance.
Quotes Egay Macaraya
“Napakalakas lahat. But the defending champions (Letran), buo rin sila with a new coach. Plus, the Chiefs, nakita natin lahat ng preseason games nila. And San Beda, they have the winning tradition.”
Prediction
8-10 (T-5th)
