Entering Round 2 of the UAAP Collegiate Women’s Basketball Elimination Round, Kacey dela Rosa of Ateneo looked poised to claim her third consecutive Most Valuable Player award after posting 96.571 statistical points.
Her closest competitor, Ann Pingol of National University, trailed in second with 89.571 SPs.
However, Pingol turned the tables with a stellar second round, eventually taking the lead in the MVP race with 93.571 SPs and dethroning dela Rosa.
Pingol’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, highlighted by two triple-doubles. She had a 12-point, 11-rebound, 11-assist outing against La Salle on November 2, and a 17-point, 11-rebound, 11-assist performance with two steals and two blocks against Adamson on November 8.
The graduating winger also guided the Lady Bulldogs to a 6-1 record in the second round, cementing her case for MVP.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Meanwhile, dela Rosa finished second with 91.429 SPs as the Blue Eagles struggled through a 3-4 second round.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
University of Santo Tomas standout Kent Pastrana secured third place with 86.643 SPs, ensuring a spot on the Elite Team for all her playing years.
Rounding out the Elite Team are Pingol’s teammates Tin Cayabyab (73.571 SPs) and Angel Surada (71.714 SPs).
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
The Rookie of the Year award is set to go to Erica De Luna, who placed 25th in the SP race with 47.214 points.
