In a breakthrough performance, Kenshin Padrones showcased his renewed confidence when National University needed him the most.
The 6-foot-4 big man from Marikina City led the Bulldogs to a 78-68 victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles — a much-needed win that arrested their four-game skid.
Padrones had struggled with fear and hesitation following an accidental hit from former University of the Philippines center Malick Diouf last season, which sidelined him for several games.
The incident left him tentative on the court, wary of another injury.
Now, with his confidence restored, the 22-year-old from NU Nazareth School is determined to help his team bounce back after a rough 2-5 record at the end of the first round.
“Ano yan eh, third game ng first round until last two games. Yun yung na-miss kong games last year. Mahirap eh. Nandiyan na yung factor na naiilang ka kasi yung fear ba na maulit,” Padrones said.
“Ngayon, wala na. Inisip ko lang na manalo and maka-contribute sa team.”
In the game against the Blue Eagles, Padrones delivered 18 points and grabbed six rebounds in 27 minutes of action.
His strong presence in the paint was key, allowing the Bulldogs to capitalize on Ateneo’s weakened interior defense, scoring 36 points in the paint.
Despite his standout performance, Padrones remains humble, focused on his role within the team.
“Of course, masaya pero ano lang eh, makaka-boost ito sa amin. Sa akin din siyempre sa kumpyansa ko. Pero ayun lang, di ko naman hinanap to eh. Dumating lang yung role na dapat kong gawin na binigay sa akin ni Coach Jeff,” he explained.
For NU to climb the standings, consistency will be crucial in the second round.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The Bulldogs continue to reel from the season-ending injury of center Mo Diassana, but their desire to win is undeniable.
While Padrones took the spotlight in this game, he credits his improvement to the competition and support among his teammates during training.
“Lahat naman kami, di lang ako. Yung mga kasama ko na bigs, nagste-step up kami, especially sa training—nagco-compete kami sa isa’t isa,” he said.
“Never ko naman inisip yung pansarili pero siyempre nakaka-boost ng confidence yun. Pero yun nga, kung ano lang yung ginagawa ko, itutuloy ko lang kung anong role yung binibigay sa akin ng coaches.”
