Heavy Bombers having a blast

Everything is going well so far for Jose Rizal University (JRU), which currently sits atop the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) bracket of the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.

Heavy Bombers head coach Nani Epondulan said in an episode of “Off the Court” on Thursday that their communication during games has proven to be a game changer.

JRU holds a 7-1 win-loss record in one of the country’s biggest collegiate preseason tournaments.

“What is good about their teammates is that they are willing to accept what their leaders will say. I told them that they just have to say it in a nice way, and then what they are saying will be accepted. And vice versa,” Epondulan said in the weekly sports show of DAILY TRIBUNE.

“It is good for the team to have open communication so that the team can run smoothly.”

Epondulan, entering his second year calling the shots for JRU, said veterans Chris Hubilla and Lorenz Mangubat have been the anchors of the team’s campaign.

In the Bombers’ 78-69 win over San Sebastian College last Wednesday, Hubilla posted a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Mangubat added 11 points.

“Actually, Chris is an intelligent player with a high basketball IQ. With his skill set, he will fit in any system,” Epondulan said.

“Sometimes, you do not need to give him the ball for him to be effective because he is very aggressive. He has a strong body.”

While NCAA Season 102 is still a few months away, JRU has already fired a warning shot at those who might underestimate the squad.

With players like Ivan Panapanaan and Sean Salvador maturing in their roles for Season 102, the Bombers are gunning for their first Final Four appearance since 2017.