University of the Philippines’ UAAP Season 84 hero JD Cagulangan may still be out due to injury, but all is well amidst the steady rise of Terrence Fortea.
The former National University Bullpup demonstrated why many rated him so highly back in his high school days. He led State U with 17 points in its nail-biting 73-67 win over Far Eastern University, Saturday night, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Ako naman kasi, since yung sitwasyon namin about kay MaiMai (Cagulangan)… Siguro mindset ko na kaagad na kailangan kong mag-step up para sa team namin,” said Fortea, who is in his sophomore year.
The UAAP juniors division champion scored 12 points in the first half and five after the break.
However, he sank two clutch free throws with 28 seconds remaining in the contest to all but nail the win.
“Siguro yung 17 points, di ko naman siya pinilit. Siguro napunta lang ako sa sitwasyon na yun. Masaya rin ako sa pinakita namin ng team namin,” said the 6-foot-1 cager.
“Di man consistent pero siguro mapupunta kami doon.”
There is still no word as to when Cagulangan will return for UP as he is still nursing a hamstring injury. His comeback is no doubt one of the most eagerly awaited events for the team this season.
Until then, though, Fortea is clearly growing into the player many saw he could be.
“Binibigyan ko ulit ng time yung shooting ko ulit eh. Siguro sinwerte lang rin kanina,” he concluded.
