AFTER a not-so-good ending to its fairy tale run in NCAA Season 101, emotions ran high on the side of Jose Rizal University which saw its Final Four hopes get dashed, as Perpetual took the 81-74 victory in the quarterfinals.
READ: Top seed Perpetual aces tough test from JRU to advance to semis
Among the Heavy Bombers, the loss was hardest on rookie Sean Salvador, who poured on 18 points and four assists in the losing cause.
While the Heavy Bombers gathered for one last huddle for the season, a visibly broken Salvador headed straight for the dugout.
Not long after their unceremonious exit, reports of Salvador mulling over his future in Kalentong emerged, stamping uncertainty on the continued development of the young Nani Epondulan-coached squad.
But as the 6-foot rookie admitted, the lingering frustrations from their heartbreaking elimination just muddled his answers when asked about what's next for him.
“Mentally and emotionally, vulnerable ako when I was asked about transferring, pero hindi ako lilipat,” said Salvador, who was quoted in reports as being less than 100-percent sure about returning for his second season in JRU.
“Siguro po, nadaan ako sa lungkot na tapos na season, pero hindi ko po ipagpapalit tiwala ng coaches.”
As the 20 year old clarified, the interest of multiple UAAP and NCAA teams has been there since his days as a Mapua Red Robin, and just got louder as his play elevated as a Heavy Bomber.
However, Salvador isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, especially after proving to be one of the cornerstones in this quickened rebuild under Epondulan by norming 12.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists.
”May mga interested schools from UAAP, pero hindi ako lilipat," he said. "Andito ako sa JRU, my heart is with JRU.”
Unbreakable bond with coach Nani
According to the young playmaker, a big factor in his eagerness to stay is the bond he formed with Epondulan, who quickly gave him the trust of being the main option alongside veteran gunner Shawn Argente.
“Sobrang saya kasi until now kasama ko pa siya sa college basketball career ko. And masaya ako kasi high and lows, andun siya lagi niya kaming pinu-push," said Salvador of the mentor who has overseen his growth from the NCAA juniors.
Even with the untimely close to their campaign, the full faith of their first-year shot-caller has given him the confidence that he belongs in the 'Grand Ol' League,' saying, “Kahit na rookie ka, pwede ka pala mag-ambag."
Even better, Salvador is also looking forward to joining forces with with former teammates and rivals waiting on the sidelines.
“Mas matibay kasi kilala na namin isa’t-isa, especially si Mangubat, teammate ko siya nung juniors, and si Chris naman, nakakalaban ko na dati sa juniors,” he said, referring to fellow former Red Robin Lawrence Mangubat and ex-San Beda Red Cub Chris Hubilla, both of whom will be eligible next season after serving residency.
“Paghahandaan namin yung Season 102 para makabawi at matulungan yung unfinished business ni coach Nani sa JRU.”
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