Victolero swears Game 3 could go either way

Mapua University alumnus Chito Victolero, who used to call the shots for the Cardinals, believes current coach Randy Alcantara has what it takes to end the school's 32-year title drought in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men's basketball tournament.

Victolero, currently the head coach of the Magnolia Hotshots in the Philippine Basketball Association, feels Alcantara's experience will help them clinch Game 3 on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum against San Beda University and give the Cardinals their sixth title after a long wait.

The 48-year-old mentor was a reserve player when Mapua last lifted the NCAA title in 1991 against the Red Lions.

"I think Coach Randy is experienced enough. He had a lot of battles in the juniors and seniors for Mapua, the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League), and PSL (Pilipinas Super League). I think he knows what to do," Victolero told DAILY TRIBUNE.

"The most important thing is their group knows what to do."

Victolero has the experience to back up his claims as Alcantara and assistant coach Yong Garcia were his deputies when he mentored Mapua from 2009 to 2012.

He said the game will boil down to who can keep their emotions in check and execute their respective plays.

"Game 3 will be about desire. Not just the will and the heart of the players but also execution and discipline down the stretch," Victolero said

"For me, it's a 50-50 chance."

With the Hotshots playing against Rain or Shine in Cagayan de Oro on Saturday, Victolero hopes he will still be able to watch Game 3 live on Sunday to support his alma mater.

"I have an out-of-town game in Cagayan this Saturday. If we can return early the next day, I'll try to catch the game," Victolero said.

"The coaches there were not just my friends but my brothers in the team. Hopefully, we'll have a good game."