It’s been a long time coming, but it seems Jerie Pingoy is finally coming into his own in the UAAP Seniors division. His career has been delayed by multiple off-the-court setbacks, but Pingoy has been slowly finding himself in the Adamson University program.
The former UAAP Juniors MVP with the FEU Baby Tamaraws, the point guard got his first shot at the starting lineup in Season 80 and helped the Falcons to a big win over the National University Bulldogs, 83-76.
If anything, Pingoy just wanted to repay coach Franz Pumaren’s trust and make his minutes count.
The 22-year-old was all over the court, scoring 12 points and swiping six steals. He also hit two crucial triples in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
“I’m just playing my best, am just following coach Franz’ system. Whatever I have right now, I’m just gonna do it, I’m just gonna play hard defense kasi alam ko yun ang matutulong ko sa team right now,” said Pingoy, who is averaging 8.8 points and 4.0 assists.
“So I’m just happy I’m back.”
Spending more time in residency than in the UAAP, Pingoy is raring to keep his spot in the lineup and realize the hype that surrounded him coming out of high school.
“It (Adamson) is really fit for me kasi way back in high school run and gun kami so yun ang laro ko talaga na mabilisan at defensive,” expressed the league’s steals leaders.
On his part, Franz Pumaren is happy to see the transferee take on his challenge.
“He’s been helping out a lot. He had great energy on defense today,” beamed the veteran tactician.
“We need this type of competition within the team so everyone can keep competing for their minutes.”
