TO this day, RK Ilagan regrets his blunders for San Sebastian in NCAA Season 94.
After getting caught playing in a ligang labas game, the Tondo-born guard felt responsible for the downfall of the Golden Stags that also denied his graduating teammates a fitting end to their college careers.
"Teammate ko nung high school ang nag-imbita sa akin. Nilaro ko lang yun," he told The Prospects Pod of the transgression that led to a suspension. "Hindi ko po alam na kapag napasa na 'yung requirements, bawal na pala."
Up until that point, San Sebastian was in the running for a Final Four race that season with a 3-5 card. But Ilagan's preseason infraction led to the forfeiture of two victories, flipping its record to 1-7.
It was all downhill from there. The Stags finished with a 6-12 record to end up tied for sixth place.
More than the forfeited victories, Ilagan regrets denying senior Michael Calisaan and perfect opportunity to showcase his skills before making the leap to the PBA.
"Nakakapanghinayang lang kasi yung time na 'yun, magpapa-draft po si Michael Calisaan tapos kumbaga nasama ko siya sa ilalim," he said.
Safe to say, Ilagan has already learned his lesson as he prepares to take on a leadership role following the graduation of Calisaan and partner Allyn Bulanadi.
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