By Rom Anzures
The pressure was on for Nygel Gonzales and Mapua, when they found themselves down 17-5 early on in a game following their first loss of the season.
However, the 6-foot-2 guard from Lipa City, Batangas knew that he had to step up and deliver when his team needed him the most.
Gonzales recognized the importance of defense, especially against SJ Moore and Arellano University, who had come off a huge win against Colegio de San Juan de Letran in their previous game.
“Bad start ako eh, pero nag-focus lang talaga ako sa depensa hanggang yung opensa dumating sa akin,” said Gonzales, who finished the game with 16 points and seven assists.
He recognized that they needed to stop the hot momentum of their opponents, and that this was crucial to their success.
Gonzales led by example, scoring a tough three-pointer against the outstretched defense of Naren Mallari with only 41.8 seconds left in the game to regain the lead for his team, 68-66.
As one of the leaders of the team, The 20-year-old, Grade 12 guard also encouraged his fellow Red Robins to focus on the next play, to cheer up, and to stay positive despite the deficit they faced.
Gonzales knew that their morale was important, especially as they were coming off a tough loss.
It was on the defensive end where the Red Robins ultimately won the game, highlighted by Noel Agenyemi’s huge block and the completion of a defensive stop on the Braves to prevent Moore and Micko Nambi from sending the game into overtime.
Gonzales knew that this win would give his team momentum moving forward.
“Makakakuha kami ng momentum sa panalong ‘to kasi yun nga from last game, masyado kaming nag-relax,” he said, recalling their previous loss against Lyceum of the Philippines-Cavite, 66-70.
“Parang wake-up call ‘yon sa amin.”
Gonzales’ performance was a testament to his leadership and his ability to rise to the occasion when his team needed him the most.
The win put the Red Robins at 5-1 and tied for number one in the league, and it was a reminder that every game matters, especially when it comes down to the wire.
