University of the Philippines is off to a blazing start in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Basketball Tournament.
The Fighting Maroons have dominated their first two outings, defeating Adamson University and University of the East by a margin of 24.5 points per game.
And they are doing so even without their prized freshman Louna Ozar.
Ozar, a 5-foot-8 versatile forward, was with Gilas Pilipinas Women during their brave campaign in the 19th Asian Games.
The 19-year-old Fil-French hooper arrived in the country on Wednesday evening.
“By Sunday, we’re hoping that she can settle down a little bit because it was a well-fought battle for them. Alam kong pagod pa yung bata,” shared Fighting Maroons head coach Paul Ramos.
“Hopefully, maturuan niya kami ng Chinese kasi French lang tinuturo niya sa amin.”
Ozar committed to UP last April and arrived a month later.
Despite her impressive resume that includes being part of ESB Villeneuve-d’Ascq Lille Metropole’s junior squad, Ozar has meshed well with her UP teammates, according to Ramos.
“Louna is a really good talent and a really big addition to our team,” continued Ramos.
Still, the UAAP is a different beast.
All Ramos can hope for is that come their game against defending champions NU Lady Bulldogs on Sunday, the stars align for the Fighting Maroons.
“Obviously, as a coach, I have to be optimistic about it but with all these years of experience, anything can happen. She has been connected with the team right from the beginning but still, it’s all about the day itself,” said Ramos.
“I’m sure Coach Aris [Dimaunahan] is preparing for Louna and all of us really well. As you have noticed, kulang na lang maubos na yung tinta ng ballpen niya kanina. That’s how coaches work,” he quipped.
“May the best team win.”
