Back to the drawing board for Racela, Tams

MANILA, Philippines – He may be experienced, being a champion coach, but Far Eastern University's Nash Racela believes he's back to the drawing board as his wards head into a new UAAP season.

Coming off a triumphant campaign last season, the Tamaraws are penciled to be one of the teams to beat in the league.

But that's the least of Racela's concerns, as he lost most of his core players to graduation.

"We lost a lot of players and we still have a lot of room for improvement," the third-year FEU coach said. "[I have a] very different team this year."

"Mahirap talagang mag-adjust with this new team cause it seems like we're looking for a new identity," Racela, brother of legendary PBA cager Olsen, added.

However, the Tams tactician noted that they're ready for whatever's in store for them this season.

"We just promise to give our best and be competitive this year," he said.

READ: Can FEU repeat as champs?

FEU will now turn to new faces for production as Mike Tolomia, Finals MVP Mac Belo, Roger Pogoy and Russel Escoto – who were all essential cogs in their championship run against UST –have moved on from the collegiate arena. They will have to now rely on then secondary weapons in Raymar Jose, Prince Orizu, Ron Dennison and Monbert Arong.

It is worth noting that most teams view De La Salle University as the favorites to win it all, and not the reigning kings of the hard court.

The Tamaraws and Green Archers figured in a controversial tuneup game in the off-season that saw tempers flare from sides. The issue was too big of a narrative especially during the UAAP press conference Wednesday at Novotel in Quezon City.

Both Racela and Aldin Ayo gave indirect responses, but were clear as day in expressing excitement for their first round meeting.

And spectators couldn't be more thrilled as FEU and DLSU will lock horns for their very first tournament assignment Wednesday next week at the Mall of Asia Arena.

READ: UAAP Season 79 MBT 1st round schedule

The UAAP comes off wraps this Saturday at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. Festivities are set to kick off at 5:30 pm.