After winning Most Valuable Player in the 2022 FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup, John Lloyd Clemente is raring to go for UAAP Season 85.
If there is one thing this campaign has demonstrated, it is that Clemente and the rest of the Bulldogs will not relax against whoever the opponent is in front of them.
“Malaking boost sa akin to dahil kumpyansa din ‘to. Pero sa amin lang naman sa vocabulary ni Coach [Jeff Napa] bawal lang mag-relax isa sa amin,” said Clemente moments after their final win against Far Eastern University.
“Yung linalaro namin, binibigay namin ‘yung best namin every game kahit sino pa makalaban namin, malakas man o mahina hundred percent ‘yung game namin kahit sino.”
Clemente averaged 13.3 points on 44-percent shooting, with 4.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.0 steals in the preseason cup. Also, the 6-foot-3 winger was part of the Mythical Five this season.
One of the reasons why Clemente is motivated to do well is because of his close relationship with NU head coach Jeff Napa, who was also his mentor when he was still in the Bullpups program.
“Siya talaga ‘yung mentor ko nung high school pa lang kaya siguro dun din ‘yung opensa ko na batas na batas, kaya binibigyan ako ng pansin ni Coach Jeff eh,” he continued.
Clemente’s first four years in the seniors level failed to match the level of play he displayed as a Bullpup.
However, the 24-year-old senior is improving bit by bit this preseason and is hoping that he fulfills his potential in his final playing year.
With a long campaign ahead, Clemente has Napa by his side to guide him all the way.
“Kahit naman ito nakakatikim ng magandang salita sa akin talaga kahit sa tagal, tagal ko ng kasama,” expressed the 40-year-old veteran tactician.
“Para, at least, itong nasa left side ko [Clemente] kumbaga he knows everybody fair treatment lahat. There’s no rookie; there’s no veteran. If [it’s] your mistake or if you’re wrong, accept my tongue-lashing voice.”
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The entire 2022 Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup will stream LIVE on Smart Sports Facebook page
