With his clutch heroics against Ateneo de Manila University, third-year gunner Jorick Bautista is making a strong case to inherit the mantle of Far Eastern University’s ‘Heart and Soul’ – a title previously held by L-Jay Gonzales.
Much like Gonzales’ game-winning performances against the Blue Eagles last season, Bautista delivered when the Tamaraws needed him most.
He scored 14 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, helping FEU rally with their backs against the wall.
After Kris Porter drained a triple to start the extra period, the 5-foot-11 guard spearheaded FEU’s 12-3 run. He contributed eight points – including two clutch long jumpers, which gave the Tamaraws a slim six-point lead, 63-56.
Despite Ateneo’s late-game pressure, Bautista’s timely contributions proved to be just enough as FEU finally secured their first win in UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament, breaking a five-game losing streak.
“Sinabi ko lang sa sarili ko na gumawa lang ako ng tama, kasi alam ko ire-reward ako sa huli, which is ayon nga, na-reward ako,” shared the Davao City native.
“Naging composed lang ako tsaka ginawa ko lang yung trabaho ko sa loob ng court. Una, I’m struggling offensively pero dumepensa ako at doon ako kumuha ng kumpyansa pagdating sa huli.”
FEU’s victory over Ateneo marked their third straight win against the Blue Eagles in UAAP competition.
For Bautista, pride is a key motivator whenever they face a powerhouse team like Ateneo.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
As the dust settled on Sean Chambers’ first-ever UAAP win and FEU’s triumphant streak against Ateneo, Bautista reflected on the Tamaraws’ perseverance despite their rough start to the season.
He also emphasized the importance of their relentless effort during practice sessions.
“Nagshoot-around pa kami kaninang umaga kasi ‘yun ang gusto ni Coach Sean sa amin, na magshoot-around bago mag-training kasi sobrang laking tulong, which is lumabas ngayong laro. Nagbunga yung mga pagod namin sa training,” shared the FEU-Diliman product.
Having stepped out from the shadows of RJ Abarrientos – who made waves in his lone year in the UAAP – and L-Jay Gonzales, who was FEU’s cornerstone for the past two seasons, Bautista now holds the keys to the team.
While it’s clear that Chambers sees Bautista as an offensive weapon, averaging 12.5 points across six games, the 22-year-old guard also aims to embody the leadership qualities Gonzales displayed during his five-year tenure at FEU.
“Unang-una, dapat maging role model nila ako kasi sa’min sila tumitngin if gumagawa kami ng tama. Tsaka ‘yun yung ini-improve ko sa sarili ko na mas maging leader at mas maging kuya pa sa kanila,” Bautista expressed.
