To me, numbers do not matter in games such as these. You can throw away all the statistics and just focus on one thing, heart. Championship games are decided by great players and teams who rise up to the occasion and play their hearts out even giving more than 100% even if its mathematically impossible.
With Xavier's win today, it successfully defends its title and now for the first time in history are back-to-back champions in this prestigious tournament sponsored by Milo. Yes, a win is a win but as Coach Owen would always say, "the last day you learn is the day you die." Let us critique that game and see how well did the Stallions fare and how much do they have to improve.
1. Height Advantage
The Stallions did a good job in capitalizing their height advantage. They had numerous offensive rebounds which led to many second chance points and opportunities. Their height also anchored their numerous zone defenses with San Beda's players as it intimated them even before they attacked the ring. Their centers and forwards also were able to block numerous shots but sadly were called for too many ticky-tacky fouls in my opinion.
2. Free Throws
Last game, Xavier missed 21 free throws. Today, I honestly don't know. I didn't bother to take down stats of those because it was difficult and I wanted to personally enjoy the game and the championship atmosphere. Xavier definitely shot better than the Red Cubs and that is what distanced them from their opponents.
3. FATE
The championship was really for Xavier to lose. San Beda had countless opportunities to tie or even take the lead at the foul line but they couldn't make the baskets when it was necessary. Jarrell Lim would have to be regarded as the Savior as he nailed every conceivable shot from every conceivable angle when they needed it the most. That my friends is what a MVP is about! As the Essence of Winning suggests, we can win with a dominant performance from one player but without God's divine hand, I don't think we can do so. It was really our game to lose!
4. Too many forced shots. Control the tempo.
As mentioned above, Xavier had a big size advantage when it came down low. San Beda's players were only leveled to the shoulders of our own big men but I don't understand why we still force up difficult shots. Yes, by nature Xavier is really a run-and-gun team scoring most of their points from fastbreak opportunities but against a fast team like San Beda, you can't run all the time against them. Organized chaos, is what we need. We know when we should run and we should also know when it is the time to set and rely on our improving halfcourt game.
5. Who is the alpha dog?
Every player by nature wants to take over the game but at times he can't do it alone. You need to understand who to give the ball to when you need points. Coach Owen's system allows players to shoot open shots given at their own range but for one to be great you must know when to give the limelight to others. You should have shame when you continue to throw up bricks. Pass the ball, help in other aspects of the game! You should not be too centered on scoring especially in games like this! Team comes first!
I hope the Stallions can have a deeper run in the Nationals and bag the championship with 15 strong! You have a long way to go guys but its a great start! Congratulations! You have successfully defended the crown and protected our house!
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