Mapua University’s problems are piling up as they are still winless in seven games after a dismal 59-64 loss against Arellano University on Sunday.
Adding salt to the wound for the Cardinals, they recently received a statement that their first win against San Beda University was forfeited because of the Gab Gamboa incident.
The Cardinals are now bottom of the NCAA Season 98 Seniors Basketball standings with a 0-7 record.
“Siyempre una sa lahat, ‘yung mga kasama kong players lahat down eh. Dahil ilang games na kaming puro dikit ‘yung laro, puro dikit eh,” lamented Warren Bonifacio.
“Pero nandun naman kami, kaso sa dulo talagang nawala ‘yung composure namin sa dulo.”
Things aren’t looking good for Mapua as things stand.
A place in the Final Four will be a major achievement considering the school’s current place in the standings.
However, the Intramuros cagers refuse to give up.
As one of the top contenders last Season 97, they do not want to waste any chance that will be given to them.
“Di pa naman tapos eh. May chance pa naman kami, kailangan lang namin ibigay ‘yung best effort namin lagi sa ensayo para magawa namin sa game ‘yung mga gameplan ng mga coaches tapos sarili namin,” said Bonifacio.
“Parang nawala ‘yung playoffs experience namin nakuha last year”
For Bonifacio and the Cardinals, they are saddened by the verdict on Gamboa as he still wanted to play with his teammates along the way this season.
Though feeling bad for their comrade, the Cardinals will go on as they stay razor-sharp and focus in their upcoming games to prove they are worthy of having a Final Four spot this season.
“Una nalungkot kami para kay Gab [Gamboa] dahil diba gustong-gusto niya maglaro para sa Mapua, gusto niya mag laro sa NCAA,” expressed Bonifacio.
“So ‘yung mga ganon sitwasyon di na namin hawak ng mga players ‘yun eh, so kami kailangan lang namin mag focus sa mga remaining games namin; kailangan namin ma-ibigay ‘yung best effort namin sa game.”
