WHEN the University of the Philippines opened its UAAP Season 88 title defense with back-to-back losses, the question of who would take over the leadership and playmaking once commanded by JD Cagulangan remained unanswered.
But for Rey Remogat, the answer was never about filling someone else’s shoes, it was about lacing up his own.
Since being thrust into the starting lineup, Remogat has become the engine of the Fighting Maroons' three-game winning streak, highlighted by a performance against Katipunan rival Ateneo with 20 points, eight assists, six rebounds, and two steals.
Without a doubt, much better numbers compared to his per game counts of 2.5 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assists coming off the bench in their first two games.
The turnaround, he said, came from staying patient and trusting both the process and his faith.
“Blessed lang din talaga ako kasi hindi naman biro yung mga pinagdaanan namin sa first two games,” he shared.
“Mas pinag-igihan namin as a team. Mas nag-focus kami sa growth namin and tinama lang namin yung mga dapat itama.”
Rey of light for the UP Fight
Instead of trying to mirror Cagulangan’s style, Remogat leaned into his own rhythm - fast-paced, fearless, and faith-driven, giving the Fighting Maroons a new identity on the court.
“Hindi rin naman ganon kadali yung challenges every day as a player. Pero sa amin as a team, yun yung nag-matter, kung paano kami mag-stick despite the challenges,” he said.
Remogat’s maturity has become as important as his stats.
He may not have set out to replace Cagulangan, but in embracing his own game, he’s become the leader State U exactly needed for this new chapter.
“Bliness lang kami ni Lord,” he added with a smile. “Yung ganitong bagay na nakaka-score, nakakagawa, bonus na lang ‘yon para sa akin.”
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