ON HIS second season since transferring from La Salle, Robert Bolick Jr. is getting ready to work with his new coach Boyet Fernandez.
His big efforts last year with the San Beda Red Lions, under former mentor Jamike Jarin helped the Red Lions regain the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball crown.
In the 93rd season, adjusting to Fernandez’s system won’t be a problem for the 5’11” Bolick, who is known for his on-court leadership.
“Nalalaro ko na ang laro ko. Nagta-trabaho ako every day. Happy ako dahil may outcome na,” said Bolick after the Red Lions showed a lot of improvement with their pre-season campaign.
Bolick, one of the team’s talented guards, expressed his thoughts on the coming season during yesterday’s NCAA press conference at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Fernandez, who is known for his half-court system of play, will be around to coach a squad facing a very competitive field when the season gets going on Saturday at the MOA Arena.
“Mabigat ang mga kalaban namin ngayon. Kasi every team, every school has improved a lot,” said Fernandez, who will have an idea of the strength and weaknesses of the Red Lions when they open their title defense against host San Sebastian College in the 2 p.m. opening game.
In the second game, Mapua and Arellano University collide at 4 p.m.
The Red Lions are still considered the favorites to win a back-to-back crowns.
They own the league’s best record of having 21 cage titles.
League president and Policy Board chair Fr. Nemesio Tolentin, OAR, of host San Sebastian College said this will be a very exciting season for all teams, since many squads have prepared.
“They’re strong and getting better and they have practiced all summer,” said Tolentin.
During the opening ceremonies, the league will honor two NCAA products from each participating team, with Stags Rommel Adducul and Calvin Abueva leading the honorees.