Donn Lim couldn’t help but express his frustration over the predicament National University is currently facing.
Entering the season with high hopes, the Bulldogs boasted an almost intact lineup and key recruits from Adamson High, fueling expectations for a strong performance after back-to-back bronze finishes in the UAAP Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament.
However, things have not gone according to plan.
The Bulldogs’ struggles began with the season-ending injury to Malian big man Mo Diassana, and they have continued to grapple with late-game collapses.
NU’s misfortunes persisted on Saturday in a heartbreaking loss to the UST Growling Tigers.
“Sa dulo, parang hindi namin na-execute game plan namin,” lamented Lim, who transferred to NU from La Salle a couple of years ago.
“Na-blangko kami pero ganun talaga.”
The Bulldogs had led by as much as seven points and were tied 64-all with 1:32 remaining in the game.
However, they faltered down the stretch, failing to execute their offense and ultimately losing to UST, 66-64, dropping their record to 1-3.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Morale namin, next man up, at bawi sa next game. Wala tayong magagawa kasi 1-3 pero once makakuha kami ng panalo, tuloy-tuloy na,” said Lim, who finished with nine points, all coming from three triples.
“Yung goal namin to end the first round is maka 4-3 kami.”
Heading into the game, many expected tension between Lim and UST transferee Forthsky Padrigao due to the serious allegations surrounding the latter that were raised two years ago.
However, Lim made it clear that he did not let off-court issues affect his on-court performance.
“Wala naman. It’s just an ordinary game,” Lim remarked.
He even praised UST’s guard rotation, acknowledging the challenges it presented for him and NU’s backcourt.
“Okay naman. Medyo mahirap lang kasi alam natin yung mga guards ng UST, capable lalo pag dikdikan na,” he added.
Despite the loss, Lim and the Bulldogs are eager for a rematch in the second round, confident that they have what it takes to beat the Tigers.
“Siyempre gusto naming bumawi kasi yung game na ito, lamang kami at nasa amin yung momentum,” said Lim.
“Looking forward sa second round.”
