Alcoseba, Nalos fix rift; cager vows to help SWU

All is well that ends well for now for the Southwestern University (SWU) Cobras as top point guard Joseph Nalos Jr. will be returning to their fold in time for the Cesafi quarterfinals today at the Cebu Coliseum.

It seems that everything is rosy again within the Cobras’ pit as Nalos and SWU head coach Raul “Yayoy” Alcoseba  mended their differences following the unsightly incident that happened last Sunday during their match against the University of the Visayas.

According to Nalos, the gap was bridged during his meeting with Alcoseba last Thursday. In that meeting, the youngster was also joined by his father Joseph Nalos Sr., who said that the fiery coach apologized to his son for his actions.

The younger Nalos was allegedly slapped last Sunday by Alcoseba during a timeout in the first half of the aforementioned match, a development which led the cager to take a leave of absence from the team.

However, Nalos had a change of heart.

“Ganahan nako muduwa kay ganahan ko makatabang sa team,” said the guard in a text message sent to this writer.

Asked if he has overcome the trauma from the incident, Nalos said that he doesn’t mind that. He said his focus is solely on helping the team capture the title this season.

“Ang akong gi-mind is ang mga school owners—the Aznars. Mauwaw ko nila if dili ko muduwa ,” Nalos added.

The elder Nalos, though, reiterated that they are still pushing through with the complaint they filed at SWU.

Upon learning of the news that his guard will be suiting up once again, coach Alcoseba had this to say: “He will make the SWU team stronger.”

It was a sentiment echoed by SWU athletic director Ryan Aznar.

“Having Joseph back adds more depth to the team. He is an integral part of it. The SWU community is really rooting for him to play again,” said Aznar.

Aznar  also clarified an earlier report in this paper that said that he wanted to take Nalos to a psychiatrist to make sure that he is mentally fit to cope with the stress. Rather, Aznar meant to say that he wanted Nalos to see a psychologist.

In related news, Alcoseba divulged that his prized rookie Ben Mbala is doubtful to play today after he sprained his ankle during practice.