Rejuvenated USPF Panthers look to extend winning ways

THE ORGANIQUE-University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers will try to extend the woes of the Cebu Landmasters-University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors today when the two squads meet in the 2018 Cesafi Partner’s Cup Preseason Tournament over at the Cebu Coliseum.

The Panthers have gotten off to a blazing start, winning their first two games. In stark contrast are the Warriors, a team that is itching for a win after losing their last three assignments.

USPF appears to be a rejuvenated bunch under the helm of new head coach, Brian Jereza. According to veteran forward and team captain, Roy Quiachon, the renewed emphasis on the value of discipline has done wonders for their squad.

“I must say that the biggest change to our team, aside from the coach, is our discipline. We’re more cohesive this year and our confidence has really risen,” shared Quiachon, who is playing in his final year of eligibility.

Even with the absence of top guard, Lyndon Colina, who is already playing for Naga College Foundation, the Panthers have not lost a beat. Quiachon credits their rhythm to their “next man up” mentality.

“We really haven’t paid much attention to the players that are no longer with the team. We were trained to be prepared for these situations. Players and coaches come and they go. The plan is to just play and continue to do as we are told.”

In the high school division, the Mandaue Hotel-University of Cebu Baby Webmasters will try to recover from their first setback of the competition when they tangle with the winless Cebu Institute of Technology-University Wildkittens.

Games today:
Cebu Coliseum
5 p.m. – UC vs CIT-U (High School)
6:30 p.m. – USC vs USPF (College)