As Wello Lingolingo added another significant moment to his time with University of the East, the third-year shooting guard immediately reflected on the people who helped him reach this point in his life — his parents.
With less than a minute remaining in the game, the proud son of Lanao del Norte sank a three-pointer that gave UE a 53-49 lead.
He set the Red Warriors on their way to a 57-51 victory over the National University Bulldogs in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
When asked what made the shot so special, Lingolingo quickly credited the most important people in his life.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“My mom and dad,” he said, having scored eight points in 21 minutes of play.
“Pinalaki nila ako nang maayos. Pinalaki nila ako na malapit sa kanila. Hindi ako sanay na wala sila sa tabi ko. Parang iniisip ko na every time I step on the court, iniisip ko na ginagawa ko ‘to para sa kanila.”
As a UAAP student-athlete, the alumnus of Placida Mequiabas National High School must balance his academics with his athletic commitments. Unfortunately, this often means his time with family is significantly reduced, especially since his relatives live in Mindanao.
This is why he strives to make every moment count on the basketball court.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“About sa family, medyo nami-miss ko lang sila. Parang ginawa ko silang inspiration sa laro. Every time I step on the court, iniisip ko sila, iniisip ko na ginagawa ko ‘to para sa kanila siyempre as a family-oriented guy,” he explained.
“Makikita ko lang sila once a year lang. Every time na the season is done, December (and during) after class, I’ll go to my home. Yun lang yung time ko para mag-spend sa kanila.”
With so much left to play for in Season 87, the 20-year-old standout hopes to make more big shots down the line. If he does, it will allow him to honor his parents and their family in front of the UAAP community and Filipino basketball fans.
“Maybe, pero di ko masasabing biggest shot because ine-expect ko sa sarili ko na may mas magagawa pa akong mas big sa shot na yun,” he said.
“Yeah, of course. It’s all about family.”
