CJ Perez assisted former team Lyceum in the Pirates’ game against defending champion Letran in the NCAA Season 98 men’s basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena. NCAA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Former Lyceum runner-up CJ Perez believes the Pirates mentored by Gilbert Malabanan could make it as far as the NCAA Season 98 Men’s Basketball Finals.
The San Miguel Beer star was present when the Lyceum clashed with defending champion Letran and he praised the much-improved Pirates, who are on a five-match winning streak.
“I believe they can come out on top, as long as they become consistent. They can get to the final as long as they are consistent, they have a huge chance,” said Perez.
“My old Lyceum team is different from this one. I think they are a bit more talented than us,” he added.
Perez, the NCAA’s season 93 MVP, also praised young Enoch Valdez, whom he considers his younger brother.
“I see him as my brother. I’m so proud of him because I’ve seen his hustle since the end of the season. That’s where I impressed him,” he said.
Valdez finished with just five points but had 12 rebounds and six steals on the team stunning 82-75 win over the Knights.
Malabanan was pleased with Perez’s prediction but said the team still had a long way to go before reaching the finals.
“Honestly, I’m not forcing them to find the final. I made them think of reaching the Finals first. We will take it step by step,” he said.
“I don’t want us to take shortcuts. We will work hard for the way to the top,” added the top strategist.
The Pirates are currently tied for first place with the College of St. Benilde with a similar 5-1 scoreline.
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