Jan Ballesteros 6y

UAAP Season 81 preview: Despite rookie-laden line-up, Adamson hoping for 'better finish'

Philippines Basketball

Adamson is no stranger to the Final Four. Under the tutelage of head coach Franz Pumaren, the Falcons have made the playoffs the past two UAAP seasons.

But now the Falcons, who lost to La Salle in the semifinals last year, are looking to soar higher in Season 81.

"I think we overachieved especially during our first season under my watch but basically our idea right now is to have a better finish than the previous two seasons," said Pumaren, now on his third year as Adamson tactician.

It will be a tough task, but not an impossible one. After all, Adamson's core remains intact with Jerrick Ahanmisi, Papi Sarr, Jerie Pingoy, and Jonathan Espelata all expected to deliver their usual numbers.

Although half of the team are rookies, Pingoy believes the Falcons bench can replicate the efforts of the starters.

"We have a deep bench now," he said. "Then we have good chemistry. So coach believes that we really can make it to the finals now. He always reminds us to work harder if we want to reach that level."

Pumaren agreed. In fact, Pumaren said the fate of of the team hinges on how the newbies will perform. Whether they will live up to his expectations or not remains unknown. But the Adamson coach is being optimistic.

"I think it all depends on the adjustments of our rookies. As you can see, half of the team are all rookies," he said. "Basically, we're just hoping the young guys can mature quickly and adapt to the style of basketball in the UAAP."

Among these Falcons, much more are expected from Ahanmisi, to whom Pumaren has entrusted the leadership mantle. The outspoken mentor is hopeful Ahanmisi will be just as assertive as he is inside the court.

"Jerrick is a very special player. There's no doubt that he can shoot the lights out," Pumaren said of his player.

"Basically, you'll be seeing a different Jerrick. We made some adjustments with the way he shoots, hopefully he can lead by example. Jerrick is not an outspoken guy. Sometimes, I tell him that he has to be a little bit selfish."

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