The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons were able to notch their first winning streak of the season after back-to-back upset wins over contenders Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles and Adamson University Soaring Falcons.
In their win against the Blue Eagles, it was junior Gelo Vito who knocked down the big shot. Wednesday afternoon, it was King Maroon Jett Manuel who sealed the win for State U.
“It was a great team win. A lot of people stepped up and we’re happy about it,” shared Manuel, who finished the game with 16 points, six rebounds, and three assists. “Ecstatic pa ako sa feeling na we have back-to-back wins.”
With Adamson cutting the once-11 point lead to just four with 47 ticks remaining, the 6’2″ shooting guard took charge when it mattered the most.
“I was actually telling him that if he wants to be the leader of this team he has to take those crucial shots,” UP head coach Bo Perasol shared.
After being shackled by Adamson rookie Sean Manganti and losing his dribble, the 23-year-old gunslinger, crafty scorer that he is, was able to find a small hole in Manganti’s defense. In one motion, he was able to sling a shot that gave UP a 69-63 cushion with 35 seconds remaining.
“I always have confidence in myself. It’s my last season,” Manuel said. “I want to give everything that I have on the floor.”
“So during clutch situations, I just want to take over. I want the ball in my hands and make something happen.”
But Manuel could not celebrate afterwards as he crumbled to the floor holding his left foot. Fortunately for the UP faithful, it was just a case of cramps.
After notching their third win of the season, the Fighting Maroons are now in sixth place in the standings. And for Manuel, talk of a possible run at the Final Four is something new to them.
“It’s my fifth year and never naman na dumating sa point na napag-uusapan [ang final four],” the Engineering student said.
“It’s new to me, honestly. But you know, I just want to keep myself grounded. I’m gonna talk to coach Bo, talk to the team.
“We’re not gonna look at that immediately, we’re just gonna keep on playing together and improving every game, and winning,” he declared.
