Rick: What happened in the Uni-Games?
Ken: Wow, that was disappointing. We played great for five games then played real bad -- off na off kami in the championship. Guys like Sanga (from FEU) really killed us. They're going to be a very good team next year.
Rick: So what did Norman say?
Ken: He was upset. We really have a long way to go. A lot of work to do.
Rick: The theme of the new campaign is “brotherhood.” What does this mean to you?
Ken: It means we leave no one behind. You’re accountable to all and you help every one. We’re all in the season together.
Rick: Does being a brother to another player mean more than just being a teammate to you?
Ken: yes it does. My teammates become my brothers. In many ways, closer at times than your real family because you spend more time together. All this time we bond and we share problems. We support each other not just on the court but also outside.
Rick: Growing up – not that you’re old already – was there a “big brother” for you? It could have been a teammate, a coach, a classmate, a professor, a friend or even family member.
Ken: I have always looked up to the team captain whoever he or they may be. From my past to present captains. You can say that I follow authority.
Rick: “It’s not about me but we.” It’s adidas’ creed or team concept. Do you subscribe to that and if you do, why?
Ken: Well basketball is a team sport not an individual one and for us to be successful we have to do our part. Whether it be someone designated a certain role or having a bigger part in the over-all plan we are a team. I am a part of this team and I’ll do what the coach thinks is best for the team.
Rick: Ken, you’re probably be going to be team captain by next year. It will be the other way around this time. Do you think you could provide that leadership needed for this team to be successful?
Ken: I was very disappointed in my play last season. If the coach was disappointed then what more myself? I guess there’s a lot more work that I have to put in. And I accept the challenge and the responsibility. I know there’s a lot in where I have to improve in and I’m willing to put in the time and effort. It’s my final year so I really have to step up.
Rick: Was there a “brotherhood” moment for you during your time in Ateneo?
Ken: There was this time where we were doing the “Pacer Drill” where we need to make 115 shots including 15 triples in two minutes. We didn’t make it first time so we asked Coach Norman if we could do it in again. We were all tired but coach agreed. We scored 130 points including 25 triples. It was like a record for us. After the drill everyone from the players to the coaches to the staff we just high-fived, shook each other’s hands, and congratulated one another. It was like we were one. The coaches kept encouraging us all throughout. We were definitely one. It’s a simple goal, but it says a lot about us that we refuse to give up.
Rick: How do you see the coming season?
Ken: Well, there will be the goals set out for the team, but it would be interesting to see who makes the team including the recruits if they do make it. It’s going to be an interesting season for all. Not just us. Some teams like FEU will be really strong next year. Right now aside from La Salle, they’d be heavy favorites. UST and Adamson are teams you cannot take for granted. Kami? I don’t think anyone will take us lightly. But we just have to find ways of getting better.
Rick: Personally, were you disappointed with the outcome of Season 70?
Ken: Some people said that we overachieved. Maybe but we cannot be satisfied with that. We had an opportunity to go farther. Maybe even the Finals, but we weren’t able to accomplish the task. But I also have to look at myself because I didn’t do well. I have to get better. And I know I will.
Rick: What do you think of Jeff De Guzman making it to the PBL with Pharex?
Ken: Galeng niya. That's good for him kasi he doesn't let get anything in the way of his dream of playing basketball. I hope he does well.
Rick: I think Ken Barracoso will do well next season.
Ken: Yeah. I hope so. Thanks for the support and encouragement all these years.Once okay na yung line-up for next year we'll be working hard to win that championship.
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