During his tenure at Adamson High School, Vince Reyes has experienced it all.
Just last season, he propelled the Baby Falcons to their first finals appearance in boys’ basketball in 20 years.
However, it concluded in heartbreak as they succumbed to Far Eastern University-Diliman in a sweep.
On Wednesday, the 6-foot-3 Reyes drew inspiration from that moment, leading his team to an 80-66 victory over UST in this season’s Final Four, securing a spot in another Finals.
“Hindi ko inexpect na ganun. Nagulat na lang ako na lumamang kami at nagtulungan na lang kami ng mga teammates ko,” said Reyes, who tallied 23 points on 8-of-8 shooting from the field with 11 rebounds and two blocks.
“Ang the best yung sumunod kami sa gameplan.”
Long-time Adamson head coach Mike Fermin is proud of the consistent performances his players have displayed this season.
“Actually, hindi yung sweep yung goal. Yung goal is to be champions.
“We took it one game at a time tapos ayun, may chance na makabalik. Ngayon Finals na. Ang maganda is yung may experience kami from last season at makuha na this time,” shared Fermin.
Being back in the Finals is a surreal moment for the senior from Caloocan City. He hopes that, come Sunday against NUNS, they can finally shed the “always-the-bridesmaid” tag.
“Kinikilabutan ako ngayon e. Lahat ng nangyari last season, gagawin namin learnings ngayon,” said Reyes.
“Talagang magtratrabaho na kami ngayon.”
