Without Ola Adeogun, who is serving a one-game suspension, Art Dela Cruz stepped up for San Beda in their win over the EAC Generals where he scored 30 points and added 10 rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
The versatile forward said he is putting in the extra work as he knows the Red Lions were depleted, and it is also mainly to prepare him for the pro level.
“Kailangan ko magpa-condition dahil marami akong positions na nilalaro e. Kulang-kulang kami kaya I need to fill in,” Dela Cruz, the eighth overall pick of the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft, said.
“Preparation ko na rin to for the PBA. Pinaghahandaan ko na para maganda na impression ko sa PBA.”
Dela Cruz added his main focus right now is the second round of the NCAA tournament, and that the Blackwater Elite has not yet talked to the forward for any offer.
“Wala na akong ibang bagay na iniisip kundi NCAA second round muna dahil this second round naghigpit na kami ng training,” he shared.
“Wala nang extra-curriculars and tawa-tawa sa practice. Sa first round we just went with the flow. (Now) we need to give more.”
Red Lions head coach Jamike Jarin already congratulated his starting forward for the milestone.
“I am just fortunate to coach him in his final year and I am happy he’s in the PBA,” Jarin said.
The mentor added Philippine basketball “is in good hands” with all the draftees, mentioning Mark Cruz, Kevin Racal, and Josan Nimes among others.
“I am very happy because Philippine basketball’s future is bright with these guys drafted.”
