CERTAINLY, RK Ilagan sure has learned his lesson.
The deadshot guard of San Sebastian was full of remorse when he played in the NCAA for the first time since his stint in 'ligang labas' games cost him a four-game suspension - and the Stags the forfeiture of two won games.
The punishment was devastating for the Stags, who dropped to the bottom at 1-8 (win-loss) while left to play without their star guard for the latter part of the first round.
"Huwag na (ako) maglaro ng ligang labas. Medyo delikado," said Ilagan, when asked what he has learned from the misadventure.
Ilagan said that he personally reached out to his team, particularly his skipper in Michael Calisaan who is playing in his final season in the NCAA.
"Kinausap ko sila at humingi ng pasensya sa nangyari. Nangulelat kami, sabi ko lang magtulungan at wag sumuko sa isa't isa. Every game laban lang," said Ilagan.
"Si Michael ang unang una kong kinausap. Humingi ako ng pasensya kasi po mag-PBA na siya tapos yung record ganito. Wala naman, sabi lang n'ya na bumawi ako para matabunan ang nangyari," Ilagan added.
His return wasn't what Ilagan wanted as the Stags were dealt an 88-70 beating by Lyceum in his first game back.
But the gung-ho guard, who scored 13 points on a woeful 3-of-11 shooting in the loss, vowed to make amends after his mistake.
" Sabi nila na bumawi lang ako. Tapos na po 'yun wala na po akong magagawa kundi bumawi na lang po," Ilagan said.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph