The reason behind Mapua University's rise in the National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament is head coach Randy Alcantara.

A member of the conquering 1991 team that beat San Beda University, Alcantara insists it is a two-way street.

After being appointed in 2019 following his success with the Red Robins in 2016 and 2018, Alcantara piloted Mapua to finals appearances in 2022 and this year.

"First of all, I'm thankful the players we have are kind and follow the system. It's give-and-take, we teach and they execute in-game. The program is there so you only have to pick the players that fit the system," Alcantara said.

Now with only a win away from ending a 32-year drought, it will be a culmination for the likes of Paolo Hernandez, Warren Bonifacio and Season 99 Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player frontrunner Clint Escamis, who won championships in the junior ranks.

For Bonifacio, who is playing his final year, he is thankful that both Escamis and Hernandez are by his side as they zero in on the title.

"I'm happy I was able to play with them in my final season. We are still working on Game 2 so hopefully, we would be fortunate tomorrow," Bonifacio said.

"I have been with coach Randy since 2013. He would always remind us to be tough on defense and the offense will follow."

Aside from his role as mentor, Alcantara also serves as father-figure to the players, according to Hernandez.

As for Escamis, who played last year for the University of the East in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, he is thankful for the chance to represent Mapua again and apply the lessons he learned.