UAAP: Chambers, Bautista see FEU rookie Gish taking on bigger roles

MANILA — Far Eastern University head coach Sean Chambers and veteran Jorick Bautista see a bright future for Elias Gish, as he comes into his own with the green and gold. 

Gish played his best game for the Tamaraws in their crucial 94-83 victory over University of the East in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball second round at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.  

The 18-year-old rookie from Clovis North High School produced 13 points, six rebounds, three blocks, along with one assist and a steal. 

“I’m just playing my role, honestly. Whatever coach tells me to do, that’s my role, and I execute it today. So, I just got to be consistent every game and just keep getting reps and working harder each time I get on the court,” Gish said during the post-game press-conference. 

The FEU head coach noted Gish’s growth and adjustment to the team, despite playing limited games with the Tamaraws. 

“He is such a phenomenal talent, but I’ve been trying to bring him on little by little in these games which are so crucial, try not to put too much on his plate,” Chambers said. 

“But today was the decision like, okay, he’s ready, he needs to start getting more responsibility,” he added. 

Chambers challenged Gish to be more confident with scoring and to take on a bigger role in games alongside fellow rookies Cabs Cabonilas and Mark Burgos. 

“I actually got on him in practice. Like, I need you to shoot the ball a little bit more now and start taking more initiative to be an impact player. Defensively he was incredible,” he said. 

“Elias is learning everybody, every day. He’s learning all the guys to know who’s who. So great job from him today, and I expect him to continue to do great things,” Chambers added. 

Bautista praised Gish for what he called a “spectacular” performance, saying he sees a bright future for him with the green and gold. 

“Alam ko naman yung kakayahan ni Gish. Nakita ko nung nakalaro ko siya sa US, alam kong future siya ng FEU basketball. At ngayon nakita ng mga tao kung gaano siya kagaling,” he said. 

As he continues to navigate his rookie year, Gish said he’s slowly getting more familiar with the team and Philippine style of basketball. 

“It’s just been all about adapting to everything here, especially like the system and just like the league in general. It’s nothing I’m like used to at all compared to back in the States,” he said. 

“I’m just trying to adapt to it still, try to get comfortable in the flow of everything like the system, how the league is, how the refs, you know, ref. But it’s just on me to just keep focusing, being locked in,” Gish explained. 

Following the win, Gish and the Tamaraws improved to a 6-4 win-loss record to boost their Final Four chances. 

FEU will next face the UST Growling Tigers on Sunday still at The Big Dome.