University of Santo Tomas head coach Haydee Ong has long focused on recruiting and developing top guards for the UAAP.
This strategy played a crucial role in the Growling Tigresses’ championship win last Season 86, ending a 17-year title drought.
UST’s program has produced notable guards such as Tacky Tacatac, Kent Pastrana, and Nikki Villasin.
Yet, the mastery of Eka Soriano, the Season 85 Most Valuable Player, is sometimes overlooked.
Soriano, who posted impressive averages of 14.36 points, 6.29 rebounds, 7.14 assists, and 3.71 steals, was hindered by injury last season.
Her performance dipped to 6.71 points and 5.36 assists during the elimination round, and 5.68 points and 4.47 assists in the Final Four.
Now fully recovered, Soriano remains undeterred by her previous season’s limited production. She feels determined to lead the Tigresses in their quest to defend their title.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“After injury, talagang finocus ko lang kung anong gustong ipagawa sa akin ng coaches. Like yun i-try mo muna, mag-start kung paano mo dadalhin yung team,” the 24-year-old guard shared.
“Huwag mo muna isipin yung 85, 85, magsimula ka talaga sa 87 na panibago.”
This season, Soriano aims not only to showcase her offensive and playmaking skills but also to foster a strong team bond. Leading a rookie-laden Growling Tigresses squad, she is joined by star guards Tacky Tacatac and Kent Pastrana, making her task more manageable.
“Kaming tatlo, ginagawa namin ay ayaw namin maging sobrang higpit. Ineenjoy lang namin yung leadership role pero pagdating sa court, kailangan seryoso; nandoon pa rin yung respeto para nandoon pa rin yung closeness sa isa’t isa,” the guard from Tondo bared.
In addition to her own efforts, Soriano is confident in the potential of her teammates, including star rookie Karylle Sierba and emerging Tigresses like Brigette Santos and Rozie Amatong.
“Marami pa kaming baon like yung mga nasa bench pa alam kong may mga ilalabas pa yan. Siyempre, hindi naman every day maganda yung ilalaro mo, pero sana mas okay kung consistent.”
