National University’s successful conclusion to its UAAP Season 87 collegiate men’s basketball campaign also marked the final performances of Patrick Yu and Donn Lim in Bulldogs jerseys.
Following their 63-54 stunning win over the top-ranked De La Salle University, head coach Jeff Napa expressed his pride for the two players, both of whom he referred to as engineers.
Yu had already passed the civil engineering board examination in April 2023, while Lim is preparing to complete his degree in the same program this year.
Having played his final game in the Blue and Gold, Yu hopes to inspire future student-athletes – showing them that no matter how challenging it may be to balance academics and athletics, it is possible.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa NU community sa suporta nila buong career ko dito. Hindi man ako nakabigay ng championship sa NU, pero at least sana naging motivation kami ni Donn sa mga student-athletes na kaya, pero mahirap,” said Engr. Yu.
“Kung may pangarap ka outside basketball or sa sport mo, kaya yan abutin, kailangan mo lang magsipag.”
Meanwhile, Lim, a former De La Salle Green Archer, expressed his gratitude to Napa and NU for accepting him and giving him another shot after things didn’t go as planned at his previous school.
He encouraged his teammates and other athletes to cherish each moment and never take their opportunities for granted.
Lim also reminded them that playing in the UAAP – the most prestigious collegiate league in the country – is a privilege only a few get to experience.
“Lagi ko lang sinasabi sa mga teammates ko na mag-enjoy lang sila lagi at maniwala sila sa NU kasi yung NU tumanggap sa akin ‘eh. Si Sir Manny (Sy) ng management, tinanggap ako tapos binigyan ako ng opportunity pa ni coach Jeff ng dalawang taon sa UAAP,” said Lim, an aspiring engineer.
“Very thankful ako. Dapat ina-appreciate nila yung mga bagay na ganon kasi minsan lang makalaro sa UAAP eh.”
While Lim’s focus now fully shifts to earning his degree, Yu has full confidence in his teammate’s future success.
“Alam ko kaya niya. May tiwala ako dito kaya nito. Mas matalino pa ito sa akin,” said Yu.
