After nine games, and just six points and six rebounds to his name this season, Sean Alter finally had the breakout performance he’s been chasing since joining the University of the Philippines.
The 6-foot-9 big man from Albuquerque, New Mexico, was unstoppable in UP’s 70-61 victory over University of the East. He went a perfect 6-of-6 from the field to finish with 13 points in just 16 minutes and 41 seconds on the floor.
He complemented his scoring with six rebounds and two blocks, marking the best game of his collegiate career.
“Feels amazing,” Alter said. “I always tell myself to keep my confidence high, no matter what kind of game I have. Even though I had a good game today, I’m gonna stay low.
“I was in the right place and the right time. I was able to get those offensive rebounds because I was really working hard and not just standing and watching the ball. I was really able to take advantage of the opportunity to get the ball and put it in the basket.”
In his third UAAP season, Alter has often faced criticism online, with some fans questioning his contributions to a top program like UP.
Social media jokes and scrutiny have become part of the territory, but he and his teammates have learned to block out the noise.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“We don’t pay attention to that at all,” said the Season 87 champion. “What we have here is a family of 16 brothers on the court. We keep all that outside noise out. We only deal with what’s inside of our circle.
“That’s how we keep our mental health good, keep our family strong, and we don’t let anything outside get to us inside.”
Beyond the team, Alter leans on a close support system, including his family in the United States and his significant other, ZUS Coffee star Thea Gagate.
Despite time differences and busy schedules, they’ve remained his constant source of encouragement.
“So my biggest supporter is the UP community, but of course, personally, it’s my family and my girlfriend. They’re always there for me. My girlfriend finds the time in her busy volleyball schedule to come to my games still. I really appreciate her and love her,” he said.
“Also, my family. Even though in the US it’s 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM sometimes, they still find time to tune into my games and watch them. I really appreciate that.”
A consistent Alter would be a major asset for the Fighting Maroons as they push deeper into the Final Four. With tougher games ahead, maximizing their depth with more contributors like Alter could prove decisive.
Having finally felt what it’s like to be a key player, Alter feels determined to keep delivering for his team, his girlfriend, and his family, repaying their support with performances they can cheer for.
“I’m just gonna continue to do what I do,” he said.
“Every time I get into the game, I’ll be ready for those opportunities that coach is gonna give me, opportunities on the court like from my guards passing me the ball — I’m gonna make the most of them and continue to do this in practice and during the games.”
#WATCH: Sean Alter stays strong amid online criticisms, crediting his UP teammates and support system—especially Thea Gagate—for keeping him grounded 🏀✊#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/6iNGaBcaAw
📹 Lorenzo del Carmen/Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/8yJZ20W8FP
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) November 8, 2025
