Lady Bulldogs all-time great Afril Bernardino had her lion’s share of UAAP glory in her five years in the National University. She finished her UAAP career with three women’s basketball titles and three MVP honors to her name.
When she played her last game in Season 79, she thought she had done it all with NU. Little did she know that, through the 3×3 basketball competition, she would be able to come back to the league and add another feather on her cap: A UAAP 3×3 Basketball title.
“I’m so happy to be back. Kahit iniisip ko na tapos na ako sa UAAP, meron pa rin palang chance na makalaro uli ako dahil sa 3×3,” she said.
Having been away from the UAAP level of competition for one whole season, the 21-year-old admitted that she is not yet in top condition.
“Inaasar ako ni Coach Pat [Aquino] na hinihingal ako agad,” Bernardino quipped.
“Mas nakakapagod siya kaysa sa five-on-five kasi wala siyang pahinga. Mag-sub ka lang kapag mukha ka nang halimaw sa court.”
Nonetheless, the 5-foot-8 guard was still able to contribute hugely to the Lady Bulldogs after scoring four important points in the final match versus the Adamson University Lady Falcons. Her leadership was there, and her shooting touch was still in play.
After Season 79, Bernardino immediately turned her focus on getting her diploma.
“I’m preparing for my graduation. Tapusin ko muna, focus ako dun,” shared the Financial Management major.
Coach Pat Aquino, NU and Perlas Pilipinas mentor, tapped the legendary Lady Bulldog’s services not only to boost the NU team, but to kickstart their buildup for the upcoming World Cup as well.
Photo from FIBA.com
“It’s also a preparation for the national team. Afril is gonna be there.
“Hopefully we could build a good and formidable team for the World Cup coming this June,” the multi-titled coach.
Her UAAP career may have been done, but as a Perlas Pilipinas mainstay, basketball for Bernardino still never stops.
