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I remember watching Roger Pogoy’s explosive performance during the PBA quarterfinals last season—the way he averaged 24 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while TNT battled past a twice-to-beat disadvantage against Magnolia. It wasn’t just a series of games; it was a statement. That kind of resilience, that refusal to back down when the odds are stacked against you—it’s exactly what I see La Salle Basketball trying to build right now. And honestly, I think they’re on the right track.

When you look at how La Salle has approached player development and team culture over the past few years, it’s clear they’re not just aiming for short-term wins. They’re building something sustainable, something that can thrive even when the spotlight fades. I’ve had the chance to speak with a few people close to the program, and what stands out is their emphasis on mental toughness. It’s the same quality Pogoy displayed when TNT, as the lower seed, dismantled Magnolia’s defense. La Salle isn’t just recruiting talent; they’re cultivating competitors who can perform under pressure. I’ve always believed that the best programs aren’t built on talent alone—they’re built on character. And from what I’ve observed, La Salle gets that.

Take their focus on guard play, for instance. In today’s fast-paced game, having a backcourt that can create, distribute, and score is non-negotiable. Pogoy’s stat line—24 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists—is the kind of all-around contribution that wins playoff games. La Salle seems to be prioritizing players who can fill multiple roles, not just specialists. I watched one of their recent recruits in a high school showcase, and what impressed me wasn’t just his shooting—it was his decision-making. He moved without the ball, set smart screens, and didn’t force shots. That’s the kind of maturity you usually see in veterans, not teenagers. If La Salle can develop that raw talent, they’ll have a backcourt that’s both dynamic and dependable.

But let’s talk about system continuity. One thing that often holds college programs back is constant turnover—not just in players, but in coaching philosophy. La Salle, from what I can tell, is investing in stability. They’re building an identity around unselfish basketball and defensive discipline. I remember talking to a former La Salle player who told me how the coaching staff drilled into them the importance of every possession. It’s a cliché, I know, but it’s true: defense travels. When your offense has an off night, your defense keeps you in games. Pogoy’s TNT squad didn’t shoot lights out every game, but they grinded stops when it mattered. That’s the blueprint.

Recruiting is another area where La Salle seems to be thinking long-term. They’re not just chasing the top-ranked prospects; they’re identifying players who fit their system and culture. I’ve seen them pass on highly-touted recruits who didn’t align with their values, and honestly, I respect that. It takes guts to prioritize fit over rankings, but it pays off. Just look at how TNT built around Pogoy—they didn’t just stack stars; they built a cohesive unit. La Salle is doing the same, targeting high-IQ players who understand spacing, ball movement, and team defense. It might not always make headlines, but it wins games.

And then there’s player development. This is where I think La Salle has a real edge. Their strength and conditioning program is among the best I’ve seen at the collegiate level. I visited their facility last year, and the attention to detail—from nutrition to recovery—is professional-grade. They’re not just getting players bigger and faster; they’re building durability. Pogoy, for example, isn’t just skilled—he’s built to withstand the physical toll of a long season. La Salle is preparing their athletes for more than just college ball; they’re preparing them for professional careers.

Of course, none of this happens without strong leadership. I’ve been impressed with how transparent and accessible La Salle’s coaching staff has been. They’re not hiding behind closed doors; they’re engaging with fans, alumni, and the media. That kind of openness builds trust—and trust builds a program. I’ve seen how TNT’s coaching staff empowered Pogoy, giving him the green light while holding him accountable. La Salle is creating a similar environment where players feel valued but also challenged.

Now, I won’t pretend it’s all smooth sailing. La Salle faces stiff competition, both in recruiting and on the court. But what encourages me is their patience. They’re not cutting corners or chasing quick fixes. They’re building methodically, with an eye on the future. I remember watching them in a close game last season where they came up short, but the way they executed down the stretch—the poise, the discipline—it felt like a team that’s learning how to win. And sometimes, that’s more important than the final score.

So where does that leave us? I believe La Salle Basketball is laying the foundation for something special. It might not happen overnight, but the pieces are there. The emphasis on mental toughness, system continuity, and player development reminds me of how championship programs are built. Pogoy’s performance against Magnolia wasn’t a fluke—it was the product of preparation, resilience, and a winning culture. And from where I’m standing, La Salle is cultivating that same culture. I, for one, can’t wait to see where it leads.