FAR Eastern University's tradition of nurturing its junior basketball players to eventually move them to varsity level is something that Cholo Anonuevo cherishes about his school's athletic program.
“Ever since naman, ganoon talaga yung FEU,” he said when asked why he chose to stay with the school.
It’s a synergy that has a proven track record. Johnny Abarrientos, Terrence Romeo, and RJ Abarrientos, to name a few, moved from high school to college in the same environment and then made exemplary PBA careers.
Anonuevo is trying to follow in their footsteps. And so are Veejay Pre, Janrey Pasaol, and Jedric Daa who all decided to remain with the green-and-gold.
The 6-foot-5 forward believes the program, built on the high school level by coach Allan Albano, works to this day.
“Pine-prepare talaga kami for the seniors,” he said.
The infusion of new blood could only mean good news as the Tams look forward to a more competitive UAAP Season 87 which kicks off in a few weeks. Anonuevo said their practice sessions have been intense and every player is working hard.
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“We all want to bring back yung winning tradition and it all starts sa practices. Lagi naman sa amin sinasabi na mag-compete lang and we’re very competitive sa mga practices namin, so we hope to bring those to the games,” he said.
Having that mindset, FEU is looking to return to the Final Four under the leadership of new head coach Sean Chambers.
“Yung change sa start, mahirap. Pero tiwala kami sa sistema ni coach Sean at lahat kami nag-buy in sa kanya,” he said. “Everyone is listening, from the seniors to the rookies. It’s been a good process.”
“We have the talent, we have all the pieces, new coach, and new system. So sana we can get where we want to go. We’re always reaching for the stars naman.”
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