For the second consecutive game in his UAAP career, Soulemane Chabi Yo has proven himself as the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers’ bedrock in the paint.
The former Colegio de San Lorenzo player followed up his double-double performance of 19 points and 12 rebounds against the UE Red Warriors last September 4, 2019. He had a similar production of 18 baskets and 18 boards against last year’s finalists, the UP Fighting Maroons, en route to an 85-69 win, Saturday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
“I just tried to play as a team and follow the instructions of Coach (Aldin). We play with a system and we just have to play united because we know UP is a talented team,” said Chabi Yo.
“If we play as a team, we will win. We have the motivation, [so] play with motivation and give all that you have. Don’t be selfish.”
Now with two wins under their belt, the Growling Tigers are close to equaling last season’s record of five victories. However, the Beninese has a bigger goal in mind than UST just having a better campaign than Season 81.
“That 2-0 (record) will give us a good motivation because we’re here to compete and we’re looking for the championship.
“We are not participating in the league just to be in the Final Four. You always want the highest one, which is the championship. So we’ll fight for it. If we reach that, it’s ok, at least we gave our best. But if we don’t achieve it, we have to work hard and come back,” said Chabi Yo.
Chabi Yo’s outing is more impressive because he did it against the league’s reigning Most Valuable Player, Bright Akhuetie.
“The match-up with Akhuetie was good. He’s the MVP, but in the court, you can’t look for that. It’s equal-opportunity when we’re on the court. We don’t care if he’s the MVP or great player, just give your best and play what you know and do what the coach tells you to do. Follow the instructions, don’t be selfish, and want it more,” shared the 22-year-old.
Up next for the Growling Tigers, however, is their biggest test yet – defending champions Ateneo Blue Eagles. Despite the circumstances, Chabi Yo insists that it is just another assignment on the calendar.
“We just don’t need to be pressured and enjoy the game, run the system, and let’s play defense and play as a team. That’s all.”
