'Hoping he continues to play defense, he’s welcome in our second group, especially James (Kwekuteye) is in our first group and that they both play in the same position,' San Beda coach Yuri Escueta said of Cortez
San Beda Red Lion Jacob Cortez finally got game. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NCAA
San Beda University's Jacob Cortez was ready when his number was called as the Red Lions played against Jose Rizal University on 19 November in season 98 of the NCAA men's basketball at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The 20-year-old recalled how his father, former PBA player Mike Cortez, called him after watching one of his games online.
"Sometimes coach Yuri (Escueta) doesn't use me in games and he (my father) saw that. Even in livestreams, he can tell from my body language that I was frustrated," Cortez said.
"He called me the next day to tell me to stay positive."
The pep with his dad gave Cortez the motivation he needed as he led San Beda with 15 points to keep the Red Lions in contention for a twice-to-beat advantage.
Escueta welcomed Cortez's game, as it would add more depth to the Red Lions with the Final Four on the horizon.
"Hoping that he continues to play defense, he's welcome in our second group, especially James (Kwekuteye) is in our first group and that they both play in the same position," Escueta said.
