Louie Sangalang admits he and fellow Letran College gunner Brent Paraiso have to stay cool, calm and collected if the Knights intend to win their third straight National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball crown.

Moments after Letran carved out a 69-64 win over Lyceum of the Philippines last Friday, the 6-4 forward expressed the belief that keeping his emotion in check will play a pivotal role in their quest to get a twice-to-beat edge in the semifinal round of Season 98.

Sangalang and Paraiso were slapped two-game suspensions for hurling invectives at an official during the Knights' 67-62 conquest of Mapua University.

Since returning from suspension, Sangalang has been putting up big numbers as he fired 12 points and grabbed 18 rebounds against the Pirates.

Currently, Letran has logged seven straight wins and Sangalang swears the entire team was crucial in his transformation.

"I credit this to my coaches and teammates. It's just not me and Brent who's working for the team."

Sangalang added: "We need to keep our emotions in check. The second round is crucial with the standings taking shape."

Letran head coach Bonnie Tan feels Sangalang is on the right track.

"You can see how the kid adjusted. What I like about Louie is that he's a fighter and he's willing to improve and adjust his game to improve himself," Tan added.