WHILE their rivals are moving heaven and earth to add blue chip recruits, University of Santo Tomas coach Pido Jarencio is convinced boosting his think tank is as valuable as getting new players.
Raring to regain lost glory, the Growling Tigers have tapped Juno Sauler and Peter Martin as new assistant tacticians.
The team, led by Jarencio, San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua, Institute of Physical Education and Athletics head Fr. Rodel Cansancio, OP, and team managers Eric Ang and Waiyip Chong welcomed Sauler and Martin during an informal dinner two nights back.
“Winner parehas itong tutulong sa atin at masaya tayo dahil marami ang maituturo ni coach Juno at coach Peter sa mga bata papunta doon sa binubuo nating winning culture,” Jarencio said.
Sauler is a former champion strategist, steering the Jeron Teng-led La Salle five to the crown in 2013–against UST. He has since served as a deputy first with Ginebra and currently with Magnolia.
Martin has been an assistant coach for San Miguel Beer for the better part of the last decade and has established himself as an integral part of the Beermen’s dynasty.
It’s the latest of SMC’s support to the hapless UST squad which is looking to reach the Final Four for the first time since 2019.
Jarencio’s staff currently includes Japs Cuan, Jeric Fortuna, Juben Ledesma, Jaren Jarencio, and Ian Herrera, with NorthPort head coach Bonnie Tan serving as team consultant.
The Tigers finished dead last in the last cage wars with a 2-12 slate.
“Disappointing season for us, right? We just won two games. I take full responsibility. I disappointed the UST community. I am asking for their forgiveness,” Jarencio said at the end of UST’s campaign last November.
“But, for sure, we will be better next year, with our recruits. They are there already,” he added.
Former Ateneo ace playmaker Forthsky Padrigao banners the Tigers’ new additions next season that also has former University of the East gunner Kyle Paranada.
