In its quest to extend its unprecedented winning streak to 96 games, the National University Lady Bulldogs loaded up their team.
Joining the defending five-time champions for their campaign in the UAAP Season 82 Women’s Basketball Tournament is former UCLA Bruin and Gilas Pilipinas pool member Kelli Hayes.
The development was confirmed to Tiebreaker Times by NU head coach Patrick Aquino.
Hayes, a 24-year-old guard who stands at 6-foot-flat, played four years in UCLA. She made it to the NCAA’s Elite Eight in her junior year.
She accumulated career averages of 4.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game.
Hayes graduated with a degree in Gender Studies making her eligible for the ‘Troy Rike-rule’.
Aquino hopes that Hayes’ one-and-done stint will help her get acclimated to the Philippine-style of play.
“Kelli will help our team by being one of the leaders of our squad. She will also provide the energy that we may lack,” said Aquino about Hayes, who averaged 8.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in the Jones Cup.
“Vice versa also. This will help Kelli know how we play locally and stay longer here and practice with Gilas for the SEA Games.”
Besides Hayes, NU will also have Gilas Pilipinas Girls member Camille Clarin.
