Franz Pumaren downplays Falcons' loss to Archers

MANILA, Philippines — For Adamson coach Franz Pumaren, the Falcons’ 75-91 loss to De La Salle in the UAAP cagefest Saturday is not much of a big deal. 

“I don’t think you have to be a basketball expert to look at the picture,” Pumaren said. “I think (the Archers) played the best game so far of the season and we played the worst game so far.”

“I saw what happened. I don’t think they did anything special,” the five-time UAAP champion coach offered. “For a No. 1 team committing 26 turnovers, [that’s] already a big accomplishment for my young team.”

While Adamson trailed by as much as 19 markers, the Falcons, for their part, only turned the ball over 22 times.

“What happened is that it showed the composition of the team. We’re a very young team, we’re probably in awe of the crowd,” Pumaren said. “They’re not used to this type of environment, this is a learning experience for our part.”

Now with a 3-2 card, the first-time Falcons tactician said he’s not letting the loss linger.

“I’m not disappointed,” Pumaren said. “I’m not happy, but it’s OK. They played their best we played our worst game of the season.”

“I have a goal an obligation to make sure that my team Adamson will be competitive this year, and that’s my thrust.”

Adamson will take on University of the East and University of Santo Tomas next before wrapping up their Season 79 first round outing.