IT hasn't been the best of swansongs for Jerome Garcia at Emilio Aguinaldo College as the Generals once again failed in their mission to advance to the NCAA Final Four.
Despite averaging 14.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists this season, the graduating forward has found success elusive as the team's go-to guy. But that hasn't deterred Garcia from going for broke with the Generals.
On Tuesday, Garcia's efforts were finally rewarded as he led EAC to a 78-70 victory over Arellano with his 25 points, six rebounds, and five assists.
"From the start of the season, ang goal ko sa team ko is makakuha ng mas maraming panalo. Puro talo yung start namin, pero di pa rin ako sumuko. Talagang gagawin ko ang lahat para makakuha kami ng panalo," he said.
EAC coach Ariel Sison is happy to see Garcia blossom as a leader after constantly reminding his team captain to lead from the front.
"Sabi namin sa kanya, you really have to make the most of your last games," the affable mentor said.
Thanks to Garcia, the Generals improved to 4-11 (win-loss) and, with games against Perpetual Help, Mapua and Jose Rizal University remaining, are still on track to matching last year's 7-11 record.
That would make Garcia happy.
"Every practice namin, talagang 100-percent kami. Kaya rin ganoon talaga kataas ang kumpyansa namin," he said. "Gusto pa namin makakuha ng panalo. Di ako papayag matalo sa last three games ko."
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