Lyceum’s do-it-all forward MJ Ayaay has a lot of things to be thankful for on his 24th birthday, Friday afternoon.
His team, the Lyceum Pirates, picked up their sixth win of the season, taking a 76-58 win over the Perpetual Altas. The win matched their entire win total from last season, when the Pirates finished with a 6-12 slate.
Moreover, Ayaay was pivotal during that win, finishing with 12 points on 6-for-9 shooting to go along with nine rebounds.
But the 6-foot student-athlete, who idolizes Dennis Rodman, shared that he did not play inspired basketball because it was his birthday. He posted that line because it was his job.
“[Kahit birthday ko kahapon], hindi ko iniisip na magpakita ngayon eh, ang gusto ko lang manalo,” Ayaay said.
Being one of the very few holdovers from Lyceum’s original core, he is nothing but thankful to be part of both the highs and the lows of the Topex Robinson-mentored squad.
“Last two years ko kay Coach Topex, masama standing namin. Swerte ko nga rin e. Dami kong teammate na natanggal diba? Swerte ko kasi nandito pa ako,” the Lyceum senior commented.
Ayaay is making the most of what is considered his second life in Lyceum. He is now playing the key role as the captain of the team, doing everything on both ends with averages of 10.2 points and 6.7 rebounds so far.
Now with the possibility of one-upping their win total from last season and a Final Four appearance in sight, MJ Ayaay’s name will for sure resonate in Lyceum’s basketball history.
By: Danine Cruz
