Paul Joven takes on former coach Mike Reyes in USC-SWU duel | The Freeman

CEBU, Philippines — The University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors shoot for their third win as they battle against the Southwestern University (SWU)-Phinma Cobras in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) Season 23 Men’s Basketball Tournament today at the Cebu Coliseum.

More than tightening their grip of the solo fifth spot in the college division standings with a 2-1 record, what excites USC head coach Paul Joven most is that he will be taking on Mike Reyes, SWU-Phinma’s chief strategist whom he considers as one of his foremost mentors.

Joven, one of the best point guards in CESAFI during his time as varsity cager of his beloved alma mater, spent his full five years with the Warriors under the guidance of Reyes and coach Jay Ramirez , from 2005 to 2009. Prior to that, he was a USC reserve player for two years (2003-2004) under Ramirez.

With the Warriors, Joven and Reyes shared an unforgettable moment on and off the playing court.

In 2005, they advanced to the CESAFI Final Four for the first time in 20 years.

They then figured in what is perhaps the fiercest and most thrilling final battle in the history of Cebu’s premiere inter-school athletic league against the formidable University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers in 2006 and 2007.

The Warriors, bannered by the powerful combo of Enrico John Llanto and Nino Ramirez with Joven as floor leader, may have lost in both finals via deciding games but somehow earned a certain measure of respect from fans and their rivals as well for their never-say-die spirit and big fighting heart.

Joven spent his last two years by helping the Carolinians finish at third place in the league’s 2008 and 2009 seasons.

Now, Joven is thrilled at facing off with a great bench tactician in Reyes who had impacted and influenced his hoop career.

“The way I understand the game and fell in love with it is because of coach Mike (Reyes) and coach Jay (Ramirez),” said Joven, who is now also a well known sports analyst and commentator. “I’m excited and always proud to be mentored by them.”

“But never was in my plan coaching USC. It was God’s plan,” Joven added.  “Now that I’m a coach, I want to honor my former mentors and teammates in