Improvement never stops for champion La Salle

MANILA, Philippines — Before all the tears, endless chants, outpour of rabid fans, and the pandemonium brought by winning the pulsating UAAP Season 76 finals series, the De La Salle Green Archers’ story was a simple one.

Before the rousing run that captivated La Sallians, before the jubilance upon winning it all, and before all the celebration and embrace shown by a euphoric ocean of green, the Archers’ fabled journey started with a single step, as if little kids trying to mutter out their first words, or pre-schoolers trying to earn their first “Good job” marks.

And it is from these “baby footsteps” where La Salle drew strength, eventually building a legacy after annexing their first title in 6 years.

Day-to-day

Head coach Juno Sauler emphasized that the Green Archers’ drive to the championship was anchored on just day-to-day improvement. He previously mentioned that they clamored about the title, but instead focused on how they could become better every time.

“I never stressed winning to this team, never stressed the championship, it’s all about improving and getting better at a daily basis,” he said after winning Game 3 of the Finals.

Most Improved Player Arnold Van Opstal shares the same thoughts, saying the team just focused on winning one game at a time before getting their minds set on a championship.

“We wanted to win one game at a time. Our motivation was getting better day by day as a team,” said Van Opstal. “We did not really aspire and focused on the championship (right away).”

No ‘I’ in La Salle

Repeatedly stressing the importance of teamwork among the group, Sauler said the team’s success was a product of its collective effort.

The Taft-based squad had their share of ups and downs, successes and struggles, bad breaks and glorious nights. But whatever the case is, the team held these moments as one. Their collective effort paid off until the very last moment.

King Archer Jeron Teng recalled a situation which could have cost them the championship, but he was glad the team was there supporting each other and making sure they won’t let each other down.

“(My turnovers) almost got us the championship; during the timeout I said I’m sorry, but Coach Juno (Sauler) said ‘the whole team is going to help you out,’ and stop (UST’s) next offense for me,” shared the UAAP Finals MVP.

It’s exactly the same thing coach Sauler does to keep the team working as a cohesive unit.

“I gave them my expectations. After the first round, I talked to them again to evaluate their performance and I ask from them what they want,” he said, even joking around about his big man’s shooting touch.

“For example, Arnold (Van Opstal) wants to work on his 3-point shots, so we will have to evaluate that,” he cracked, drawing laughter from the people in the press conference.

Learning from a legend

Speaking of working together, training sessions can get really hard and serious for the champion squad, but assistant coach Allan Caidic came up with a right formula to push his boys to the limit while keeping it light: a shooting game.

Known for his unparalleled outside touch during his PBA career, Caidic challenges his boys to a shooting drill where they need to beat “The Triggerman” himself.

He says it’s a good way of infusing fun to practices while helping the players to do better.

“Ang approach ko e, I challenge them before or after practice to shoot free throws and 3-point shots,” said the former 3-time UAAP MVP.

Off the court, he also talks to the players casually and shares valuable experiences to help the Green Archers.

“I just talk to them individually. Pag nakakakwentuhan sila outside the court, I talk about my good and bad experiences. ‘Yun ang approach ko sa kanila. Light lang.”

Watch out for more

While still basking in celebration of winning the Season 76 title, Sauler promises another exciting ride for the Green Archers next year, and as early as now, the whole crew is already working on the necessary tools to get it done.

In fact, Sauler will be travelling to the United States to learn new things which he could later share with the team.

“Nothing really specific (to discuss), but if there’s anything new to learn that I can share with my players, I’m just trying to make the most out of the trip,” said Sauler.

Sauler will also keep the Green Archers in top form during off-season with stints in other leagues, such as the Philippine Collegiate Champions League (PCCL) and Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup.

‘It’s our time’

It was in one of their games against rival Ateneo Blue Eagles where Van Opstal first shown semblance of his drastic improvement. Asked what motivated him, the Fil-German said the Blue Eagles had enough, and it’s their time on the spotlight.

“Ateneo had their time. Now, it’s our time,” he said after their first round meeting.

Now the defending champions, Van Opstal said they would be going all out to protect their crown. Although they are far from the next UAAP season, he said that is the ultimate goal.

“Honestly, I want to get a two-peat. We haven’t really thought about it yet, but that’s the goal,” he said. “We want to keep it our time.”

Carrying along an intact line-up for the next UAAP wars, De La Salle University bid for a two-peat may just come into a reality.

As early as now, fans are already gearing up for what the Green Archers will accomplish next year. Sauler and the rest of the squad know how to get it done, and they’ve already vowed to go all out when Season 77 kicks off.

“We will get better next season.” – Rappler.com