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Looking back at last season's standings and comparing them to where teams stand now, I can't help but notice some fascinating shifts in the basketball landscape. As someone who's been following international basketball for over a decade, I've seen how quickly fortunes can change in this sport. The team that particularly caught my attention is the one that finished 4th with that impressive 33-25 record last season - that's a winning percentage of nearly 57%, which in my experience is the kind of performance that builds championship foundations.

What really stands out to me is how they've managed to retain their core players while making strategic additions. Keeping June Mar Fajardo was absolutely crucial - I've watched this guy dominate games single-handedly, and his presence alone gives them a fighting chance against any opponent. Combined with Cjay Perez's explosive scoring ability and the veteran savvy of Chris Ross, this team has what I believe is the perfect blend of youth and experience. The fact that they didn't lose any key players in the offseason is quite remarkable in today's game where roster changes happen constantly.

The additions of Chris Miller and Royce Mantua might not make headlines everywhere, but from what I've seen, these are precisely the kind of role players that championship teams need. Miller brings that defensive intensity I love to see, while Mantua adds depth to their perimeter shooting. These moves show me that the management understands exactly what they need to climb from 4th to the top spot. Having achieved that highest finish of 1st in the Philippine Cup previously, they clearly know what it takes to win when it matters most.

When I analyze their current position compared to last season, what strikes me is their consistency. Maintaining that core group of Fajardo, Perez, Cruz, Ross, Lassiter, Tautuaa, and Trollano gives them continuity that many teams would envy. In basketball, chemistry isn't just a buzzword - it's the difference between good teams and great ones. I've seen teams with more talent struggle because they couldn't build that cohesion, but this squad has been through battles together.

The real test, in my view, will be whether they can translate that Philippine Cup success across the entire season. Winning one tournament shows you have peak performance capability, but maintaining that level through a grueling schedule requires depth and resilience. With their current roster construction, I'm optimistic they can make that jump. The numbers don't lie - 33 wins is substantial, but I think they're capable of pushing toward that 40-win mark this season.

What fascinates me most about following basketball rankings season to season is how small adjustments can lead to significant improvements. Sometimes it's not about massive roster overhauls but about refining what already works. This team seems to understand that philosophy perfectly. They've kept their identity intact while addressing specific needs. In my years of observing basketball dynamics, that approach often yields better results than chasing big names without considering fit.

As we move deeper into the current season, I'll be watching closely to see if they can convert that 4th-place finish into a championship run. The pieces are certainly there, and the stability they've maintained gives them a head start many competitors lack. Basketball success often comes down to who can execute when it matters, and with their experience and renewed depth, I wouldn't be surprised to see them climbing those rankings in the coming months.