Terrence Fortea finally displayed the lethal form that once made him a highly-touted prospect in high school.
He delivered a flawless shooting performance — literally — to propel University of the Philippines to another win in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
With a perfect 4-of-4 shooting from the field, including three made three-pointers, and converting both of his free throws, the fourth-year guard tallied 13 points, five blocks, and two steals.
His contributions were crucial in helping UP stage a comeback from 22 points down to defeat Adamson University, 69-57.
Despite his standout performance, the 22-year-old guard from National University Nazareth School was modest, focusing on his productivity coming off the bench rather than his personal achievement.
“Actually, wala akong attempts nung unang pasok ko,” said the 6-foot-1 combo guard.
“Di ko rin alam kung ano din ang mangyayari, pero ready lang talaga kahit nasa bench na nanonood. Mina-mindset ko yung sarili ko, once na pumasok ako, ibigay ko yung strength ko na three-point shooting at kung ano man ibigay sa akin ng depensa. Masaya ako na na-contribute ko yung part na yun.”
While Fortea downplayed his impact in UP’s sixth straight win of Season 87, it was a significant moment considering he missed most of the team’s Season 86 campaign due to an injury he chose not to elaborate on.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
For Fortea, it’s more important to look ahead rather than dwell on things beyond his control.
He has no regrets about playing out last season despite having limited minutes, focusing instead on contributing to the team.
“Last year kasi, nag-usap kami ni Coach Gold (Monteverde) sa kung ano yung sitwasyon. Siguro, dalawang beses din ako nagpa-opera nung taon na yun,” Fortea, a native of San Juan City, explained.
“Sabi namin na kung six months at hindi ako aabot, hindi ako ila-lineup ni coach. Pero sinabi ng doctor na weeks lang naman. Pero siyempre, may mga bagay din na di ko naman kontrolado na di pa ganun ka-okay. Siguro hindi lang namin talaga ni-raise last season pero sinabi na okay naman siya.”
With his injury behind him, Fortea is eager to make up for lost time.
Despite winning a championship in Season 84, he had to endure back-to-back finals losses to Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University.
Now, his focus is clear: redeem the time lost and aim for another championship by the end of 2024.
“Masaya kasi parang ang mindset ko nasayang yung taon. Wala naman nadagdag pero ngayon siguro, mindset lang is makuha yung championship. Yun lang ang iniisip namin,” Fortea said.
