Defending champions San Beda Red Lions remain the benchmark of excellence in NCAA after a perfect 4-0 start in Season 95.
A wealth of talent has contributed to the Red Lions’ early success, but one player stood out in particular after their 73-59 victory versus title hopefuls San Sebastian last Friday.
Veteran forward Calvin Oftana made his mark on the game with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. Beyond that, he was instrumental in the final period, scoring eight points, including two triples, to help keep San Beda’s record unblemished.
His all-around brilliance earned him the Chooks-to-Go/Collegiate Press Corps NCAA Player of the Week award.
“Calvin made his shots in the fourth. He had been missing that in the first quarter, but I told them if they’re open, they should take it,” said Red Lions coach Boyet Fernandez. “I’m happy with the way he played today and hopefully, maging consistent pa lalo si Calvin.”
For the 6-foot-5 forward, the focus remains on working his way towards becoming a reliable and consistent big man for San Beda.
“Sobrang mahirap, pero dinodoble ko yung effort ko para mag-improve,” said Oftana, determined to fill the void left behind by Javee Mocon. “Para may ipakita naman ako this season.”
Oftana beat out Lyceum’s Renzo Navarro, Letran’s Ato Ular, CSB’s Jimboy Pasturan, and Arellano’s Kent Salado for the weekly award handed out by scribes covering the beat from print and online.
