ANTIPOLO — Coach Haydee Ong and University of Santo Tomas finally got the breakout game they have been waiting for from one-and-done recruit Nikki Villasin.
In 19:29 minutes of action, the North Park University product produced 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals to contribute heavily to the Growling Tigresses’ 82-61 win over University of the Philippines at the Ynares Sports Center here.
“I just feel like we’re always prepared. Our coaches always put us in the best positions just to be ready,” said the Chicago, Illinois native.
“We never really have time to rest because the next game is always just coming up. They work hard so we really have to work hard.”
As a new recruit to the UAAP, it is easy for any player to struggle during the start of their journey in the collegiate division.
Villasin was no different as she needed to get her feet wet before settling in.
When times are tough, one needs to receive advice from others and that is what Villasin did.
“I actually had this conversation with my coaches. I felt like the first few games, I was kinda getting what I wanted, and then other teams really scouted and they adjusted so it kind of forced me to be like in this other position to make my defense give me my offense,” said the 23-year-old guard, who is a one-and-done for UST.
“So I was kind of stagnant for a little bit and I switched my mentality earlier this week. I can’t finish the first round the way I’ve been playing.”
Just like most Filipino-American recruits, Villasin had to adjust to the local game’s physicality.
A lot more contact is allowed here compared to other countries and it is up to foreign-based players to adjust to their new circumstances.
“I feel like in the States, it was a lot slower. We get to dribble more. We get to play off the pick and roll. Here it’s like there’s always somebody coming after you and you’re not gonna get your call,” said Villasin.
“I just had to really play through it, work with my teammates, and not rely on myself and individuality.”
Now that this game is in the bag, Ong expects a lot more now from Villasin.
There will be more challenges to come before the Growling Tigresses can seal a Final Four ticket and players need to step up come round two of the tournament.
“She’s my text-mate every day. Nikki is very coachable and very hardworking that’s why I don’t have any problem with her. She’s adapting to the system and adjusting. As we go on the second round, hopefully, she will have better games than this,” said the former national team coach.
