Precious Momowei did all he could to extend University of the East’s winning streak in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament.
This included playing every minute in the Red Warriors’ 69-62 conquest of the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Wednesday evening – their fourth consecutive win.
The victory pushed them to solo third in the standings.
The 6-foot-9 Nigerian center was relentless in UE’s come-from-behind victory against Ateneo. He finished with 18 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, a steal, and a block in an impressive 40 minutes of action without any relief.
Not sitting on the bench for even a second, this dedication is what Momowei brings to the Red Warriors—his family here in the Philippines.
“This is my job. This is what I do for a living, so I am ready to play 100 minutes, 40 minutes,” said the 22-year-old sophomore.
“I’m just ready to die out there. This is what I signed up for, so yeah, I’m ready for the challenge, whatever it takes.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
In his second year with UE, Momowei’s belief in his team never wavered, despite the exit of key players.
The Red Warriors lost their top guard, Rey Remogat, a Season 86 Mythical Team member, as he transferred to University of the Philippines.
Now, many heroes have risen to the occasion for UE, including guards Wello Lingolingo, John Abate, and Rainer Maga.
“We have all this belief ever since the start of this season. Our number one goal is making the Final Four. Whatever it takes. We just have to be consistent and play as a team,” said Momowei.
That belief is translating into on-court success.
Despite losing their first two games, the Red Warriors are now on a roll at 4-2. Big wins came against the defending champions De La Salle Green Archers and the National University Bulldogs, which have put them in solo third.
UE aims to stretch the success it is enjoying when it battles Adamson University on Sunday to close the first round.
