There’s no such thing as a “last shot” for Angel Surada.
In fact, that’s been her trademark throughout her five-year UAAP career — turning what most consider a “last shot” into one more opportunity.
National University’s streak of 10 straight Finals appearances was minutes away from ending, with Ateneo de Manila University in control late in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball stepladder semifinals.
The Blue Eagles held their largest lead of the game at eight points after a Camille Malagar triple with 4:09 left, 65-57.
But the Lady Bulldogs showed why experience matters in tight games. Marga Villanueva, Ann Pingol, and Tin Cayabyab mounted a 9-1 run to tie the game at 66.
With Ateneo missing their opportunities on the other end, NU had the “last shot.” Pingol hoisted a three-pointer with three seconds remaining, but it rimmed out, and the players braced for overtime.
All players, that is, except Surada.
The 5-foot-9 forward crashed the boards, aggressively going for the offensive rebound. She drew a foul from Sarah Makanjuola while going for the putback.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“Wala na akong pake sa oras eh. Pag tingin ko, pag-shoot ni Ann lahat nakatunganga, going for the ball talaga ako,” shared Surada.
“Actually, ‘yun ‘yung mga favorite scenarios ko pag endgame, ‘yung nakatingin na lang lahat tapos walang going for the ball.”
She got what she wanted, and now there was one thing left to do: make the free throws.
Surada approached the line, focused and undeterred by the weight of the moment.
But she missed the first.
“Sabi ko, kailangan kong i-shoot ‘yung pangalawa. Pinagdasal ko lang ‘Lord kung para sa amin ito, mashu-shoot ‘to’.”
Swish. All net.
NU completed the comeback, held on, and will advance to its 11th straight Finals appearance.
And it all came down to Surada’s trademark: no last shot. Only the final shot you create.
