Roger Ray Pogoy (seated right) watches a game between Southwestern University and University of the Visayas at the Cebu Coliseum (CDN PHOTO/JUNJIE MENDOZA).
STEPPING onto the friendly confines of the Cebu Coliseum, a place he once ruled when he played for the University of Cebu (UC) Baby Webmasters, swingman Roger Ray Pogoy waxed nostalgic about his humble beginnings and the basketball path that he is on right now as a member of the latest incarnation of the Philippine national basketball team – the Gilas Cadets.
Talking to Cebu Daily News in an exclusive interview, the former Far Eastern University (FEU) standout could not help but recall how he once played when he witnessed the afternoon matches of the Cesafi on Saturday.
“They are very aggressive, just like how we played before. Nothing much has changed,” said the proud son of Talisay City who helped lead the Tamaraws to the UAAP title last year with his late-game heroics in the deciding game three.
“Every time I come home, I always tell myself to go watch the games here because I miss this. This is where I started,” the 6-foot-3 cager said.
Since leaving UC, Pogoy has carved out a name for himself as one of the finest amateur players in the country, having represented the country in international competitions three times. Still, the Cebuano in Pogoy remains intact, he says.
“The run-and-gun game is very Cebuano. They scold me sometimes and tell me I should be in control but there are times I can’t help it. When I see a clear path, I go all the way,” shared Pogoy with a laugh.
Pogoy has brought his style and skills to the Gilas Cadet, a move that has placed his dream of playing in the PBA on hold, a move that he has not regretted, not one bit.
“It’s really different if you’re playing for the country.”
Playing for the latest iteration of the Gilas has not been all roses, said Pogoy. With a team devoid of professionals, the team has had to lean on one another especially during their latest foray into international play – the Fiba Challenge .
As for those aspiring players who harbor dreams of making it to the next level, Pogoy dispensed of this piece of advice: “Persevere and strive.”