Despite being unsuccessful in defending the UAAP men’s basketball title this past season, expect head coach Aldin Ayo and his staff to be back next year.
In a statement issued by team management, Ayo continues to have their full support. This is amid speculation that he will be transferring to another UAAP school. This rumor began to swirl during the latter part of the season. Management made it clear that they still want Ayo to take charge of the team in their quest to reclaim the championship.
With everything settled, the Green Archers can now focus in their preparation for next season. They return to action in February as they will compete in the Philippine Collegiate Champions League.
“We, the management, coaches, players and staff of the DLSU senior men’s basketball team, are one in congratulating Ateneo for winning the UAAP championship this season.
While we fell short of retaining the title, we are humbled by the overwhelming response of both Ateneo and DLSU in the way we accepted defeat in the spirit of sportsmanship with heads unbowed. We stand united as a team to regroup and regain the crown next season. We will reassemble to begin practice on Jan. 16 after the holidays and prepare for the PCCL National Collegiate Championships on Feb. 2-11.
Management is firmly behind coach Aldin Ayo and his staff as we start the process of rebuilding for the future.
We are saddened by the loss of Abu Tratter who has completed his years of UAAP eligibility and wish to thank him for his efforts in fighting to keep our glory bright.
We take this opportunity to express our wholehearted appreciation to the Lasallian community for supporting us through thick and thin, through good and bad times. Now more than ever, we are strongly committed to bounce back with a resolve that is uncompromising and unflinching.
We will forever hold our banner high and bright, a shield of Green and White.
ANIMO!”
There are posts saying that Aldin does not have the support of the alumni of DLSU. That is false. I have not heard 1 person that matters say that they do not support Coach Aldin. It's those that have an ax to grind that fuel this.
— Tony Lebron Atayde (@asgreenasitgets) December 20, 2017
We are not sure who started all this, could be within the school or from outside but it’s about time that we put a stop to all these rumors and speculations. The team experienced so many distractions that may have somehow affected the outcome of their season. There is nothing good that will come out of it.