Monteverde: Nothing to be ashamed of

University of the Philippines (UP) head coach Goldwin Monteverde remains proud of his players despite losing to De La Salle University, 72-80, in Game 3 of Season 88 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball finals.

Monteverde, who led the Fighting Maroons to their fifth UAAP finals since 2022, said he has nothing but praise for senior guards Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Janjan Felicilda, Terrence Fortea and Reyland Torres for giving it their all in their five-year stay.

“First, of course, they gave everything. I’ve been with them since not just since Season 84, but every practice, every game, I could see them really give their best,” Monteverde said.

“I don’t have anything else to ask from them. For me, I think, in terms of the kind of team they have, of course, it’s good to be with the winners, but I saw how solid they were even after losing.”

Monteverde, who has been with his seniors since their high school days with National University Nazareth School, insists he has nothing more to ask for as they were part of revitalizing the basketball program of the Maroons.

“I feel blessed. I’m very sad that the coach has this opportunity to be with a group of guys who are with you since high school,” Monteverde said.

“Usually, we’re top two. Although, of course, I don’t want to lose right now, but I’ve been with them in their loss. I don’t have anything else to ask for.”

In the five years with UP, the so-called “Maroon 5” have been with the team in every UAAP finals since the league reopened in 2022.

The quintet of Alarcon, Abadiano, Felicilda, Torres and Fortea won two UAAP titles in a five-year span.