After four months of not being in the collegiate scene, the UAAP’s scoring sensation Alvin Pasaol was back on the hard court Sunday. But it was not in the usual 5-on-5 setting as he represented the University of the East Red Warriors in the first-ever UAAP 3×3 tournament.
And just like what he usually does, he put on a show.
“Napakita ko yung skills ko. At least, napasaya ko naman yung mga tao. Yun lang naman yung gusto ko e,” the incoming UE senior shared.
“Enjoy the game lang.”
His offensive prowess was in full display during the entire one-day tournament. It was most evident during their semifinals showdown against the NU Bulldogs.
The 21-year-old forward scored at will, shooting over three defenders at times and even knocking down a fadeaway two-pointer to seal UE’s 19-16 win. By the way, the burly student-athlete scored 17 of the 19 Red Warrior points.
However, Pasaol and his teammates were shackled during the final, falling to eventual-champions FEU Tamaraws. Still, it was a good showing for the Red Warriors even if they just trained under UE’s Physical Education director for one day.
“Siguro, kinulang nga ng kain sa Mang Inasal, one rice lang kasi e,” the charismatic Red Warrior quipped.
“Mahahalata niyo naman siguro na talagang undersized kami, wala kaming big man. Nag-training kami, siguro, isang araw lang. Ako, nagfofocus ako sa D-League, di ko sila nakakasama,” he furthered.
“Pero good performance for my boys. Malaking tulong yun pagdating ng upcoming UAAP.”
Besides carrying his team on his shoulders, Pasaol also performed double duties for his team, playing the role of coach as well. He was the one calling timeouts and talking up plays to his teammates.
And he did this just so they can represent UE well.
“Sobrang proud ko talaga. Sa jersey na ‘to, sa university na ito ako nakilala kaya pinagmamalaki ko talaga. Kahit anong suotin kong jersey ko balang araw, di ko talaga makakalimutan tong jersey na to ngayon.”
