Former USC cager returns to Cebu in Mapua uniform

A familiar face will be standing opposite the University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors when they kick off the festivities in the 2015 Cebu City Mayor’s Cup International Basketball Tournament against the Mapua Cardinals this Friday at the Cebu City Sports Institute.

That will be wingman Stephen Que who will be making his return to Cebu City as a member of a Cardinals squad vying for respectability after years of rebuilding under the watchful eyes of PBA legend Atoy Co. The Filipino-American suited up for the Warriors from 2011 to 2013 but decided to test the waters of Manila where he ended up with Mapua.

After serving the residency period, Que will now get to strut his stuff in the NCAA this season. But first, there’s the matter of facing off against the team he once called family.

“It definitely feels weird suiting up against them since I’ve had so many memories and battles with USC. They were the ones who took care of me in my first two years in the Philippines when I knew nothing. I’ll always have much respect for that whole organization and hope nothing but success for them in the future,” said Que in an exclusive talk with Cebu Daily News.

“Well except for this Friday when we play them,” Que added with a hearty laugh.

The tournament is expected to attract droves of basketball fans, especially with the presence of the Malaysian national squad that recently competed in the Southeast Asian Basketball Association Championships and placed second, thus earning for themselves a slot in the Fiba Asia Championships. Completing the roster of teams is the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters.

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Local fans though, will be intrigued by the Cardinals, who, after spending the past few seasons rebuilding, appear to have turned the corner towards contender status.

“Mapua hasn’t really been good these last few years. But this year is our host year and we need to make a statement. We have the talent and pieces to do it, we just need to perform,” Que said.

And with star wingman Josan Nimes, the NCAA’s 2011 Rookie of the Year, finally back in harness after sitting out the past season because of a back injury, things finally look bright for Mapua.

“Yes Josan  (Nimes) is finally back with the team and healthy. We will surely need him this year to help us reach our goals. He’s a great player,” shared Que.