After staying at University of the Philippines for almost a year, Chris Hubilla has finally achieved his reunion of sorts – just on the other side of the court.
Mapúa University’s 6-foot-4 recruit contributed well throughout the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup, averaging 11.3 points and five rebounds while shooting 42.3 percent from the field.
However, his preseason stint has now come to an end at the hands of the school that served as his home over the past year, in a 75-94 loss to the Fighting Maroons in the quarterfinals.
Given the task at hand, going up against the only undefeated squad in the league, Hubilla recognized the challenge the Cardinals were facing.
“Siguro mas na-challenge ako dahil alam kong nakasama ko sila,” shared Hubilla, who was limited to just five points and five rebounds against UP.
“Sabi ko, may challenge ako kasi sobrang competitive nila na team and may matututunan kami as individuals and as a team.”
Additionally, the NCAA Season 98 juniors Mythical Team member mentioned that the Mapúa coaching staff encouraged them to learn a thing or two from their encounter with the perennial UAAP finalists.
Right now, Hubilla admits that he’s still adjusting to his new home in Intramuros and has to figure things out after only being with the team for less than a month.
“Di ko pa naman masabi pero so far, nag-aadjust pa naman ako,” said the former San Beda Red Cub.
Despite his limited time thus far with the team, he still only has one goal for the Cardinals moving towards NCAA Season 100.
“Siyempre ‘yung championship, pero hindi madali ‘yon, pagta-trabahuhan talaga ‘yon.”
