Reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player Kacey Dela Rosa has been putting on a historic performance in the UAAP Season 87 collegiate women’s basketball tournament.
She’s notched double-doubles in all six of Ateneo de Manila University’s games so far.
Yet, she still feels satisfied.
Dela Rosa once again led the Blue Eagles with 19 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks in their commanding 90-62 victory over the University of the East Lady Warriors on Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
“I think kulang pa yung ginagawa ko for the team kasi may goal kami na kailangang makamit, which is yung championship,” said the third-year, six-foot center, her focus squarely on their ultimate objective.
“Lagi kong sinasabi kay coach na gagawin ko yung best ko para matulungan ang team,” she added, as Ateneo now holds a 4-2 record, tying them for third place.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
One area Dela Rosa aims to improve is her consistency from beyond the arc, a development that would make her even more difficult to guard.
In five of their six games, Dela Rosa has attempted a three-point shot. After missing her first four attempts, she finally connected from deep in their game against UE.
“Yeah, I think ie-expect na rin yun, di ba coach? Yung three points ko,” said the Season 85 Rookie of the Year.
Head coach LA Mumar agreed, recognizing how valuable a reliable three-point shot would be for Dela Rosa’s game.
A consistent outside shot would not only enhance Ateneo’s system but also align with their long-term vision for Dela Rosa – which includes her becoming a Gilas Pilipinas mainstay and potentially playing abroad.
“We want her to shoot from the outside, not just for Ateneo, but because our goal is for her to play for the national team and maybe secure an international contract,” said Mumar.
“We’re not just thinking about Ateneo for Kacey. We’re looking at her future, so we encourage her to take those shots. She’s been working on it, and when she’s open – banat.”
