Over the past two games, National University Nazareth School’s lead floor general Jid Locsin has struggled to find his rhythm.
In the UAAP Season 87 boys’ basketball post-season, Locsin, a crafty guard from La Carlota City, has averaged just 3.0 points and 1.5 assists per contest — a noticeable dip from his elimination round numbers.
Fortunately for the Bullpups, one guard was ready to step up — Mot Matias.
Matias has been a steadying presence for NUNS in the playoffs.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
In the semifinals against Adamson, the son of former pro Ronnie Matias contributed eight points, four rebounds, and three assists, helping guide NUNS to the Finals.
Then in Game 1 of the championship series, Matias provided five assists and three rebounds in just 15 minutes of play.
For the 5-foot-9 guard, it all boils down to being prepared.
“Inisip ko lang yung laging sinasabi ng mga coaches na lagi lang ako mag-ready. Kaya ayun, nung nakita kong nahihirapan si Jid sa laro, talagang pinanindigan ko yung role ko,” said Matias.
Though one of the youngest players in the squad, Matias is no stranger to high-stakes moments. He was part of the NUNS team that captured the inaugural UAAP Junior High School Boys’ Tournament title last year.
Since then, he’s maintained a close relationship with Bullpups head coach Kevin De Castro.
“Parang hanggang ngayon, tinatatak ko pa rin sa isip ko yung sinabi sa akin ni Coach Kev nung nasa 16-under ako — na pagalingin ko lang daw yung mga teammate ko. Kaya ayun, ginawa ko lang yung role ko,” Matias recalled.
“Sa 16-under doon talaga tumaas yung kumpiyansa ko, lalo na’t si Coach Kev pa rin ang naging coach ko. Kaya thankful pa rin ako sa mga coaches na yun, lalo na kay Coach Kev at sa lahat ng coaching staff.”
Now just one win away from ending a five-year title drought, Matias’ mindset remains unchanged — stay ready when his number is called.
He understands that UST poses a serious challenge.
“Yung pagkatalo namin sa UST, doon talaga kami nakakuha ng aral kaya nagdoble kami ng effort sa larong ito,” he said.
