Expectations are high for the JRU Heavy Bombers heading into NCAA Season 102. And head coach Nani Epondulan, the focus is on preparation, which he notes is the biggest lesson they learned from last season.
JRU Deep in Preparation for Explosive Season
After a fruitful offseason that saw the Heavy Bombers win the championship at the 19th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Tournament—a feat accomplished by an NCAA team only four times in the past—anticipation is at an all‑time high for JRU.
But for Epondulan, who’s set for his second season with JRU, no task is impossible as long as the team is well‑prepared for what may come.
“Well, I think the biggest lesson na‑learn ko from last year to this year is ‘yung preparation. Every team is capable of beating each team kung talagang well‑prepared,” said Epondulan.
“So ‘yun ‘yung tingin kong tina‑trabaho namin ngayon. Still, every game, lagi akong nanonood ng mga previous games namin just to correct lang or just to improve lang kung ano ‘yung mga dapat naming iimprove,” he explained.
Aiming Higher
Back in Season 101, the Heavy Bombers were part of Group B and reached the quarterfinals. However, they were quickly eliminated by the Perpetual Help Altas in the playoffs.
Now, with the rise of their young players such as Lawrence Mangubat, Chris Hubilla, and Ivan Panapanaan—who have continued to develop and gain valuable experience through the offseason tournament—JRU is ready to launch an explosive Season 102 campaign.
