Gambian center Mo Konateh left it all on the floor to propel a young Far Eastern University squad to its second victory in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Konateh logged 43 minutes and five seconds in the Tamaraws’ 76-72 overtime thriller against the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Saturday evening.
And he set the tone for the second round, as FEU improved its record to 2-6.
The 6-foot-10 rookie notched his fourth consecutive double-double, recording 13 points and a season-high 26 rebounds, along with four blocks, two steals, and one assist.
His 26 boards marked his second game this season with more than 25 rebounds.
He also came within one rebound of tying Ange Kouame’s UAAP men’s division rebounding record, set during Ateneo’s 82-62 win over FEU in Season 81 on October 20, 2018.
Despite his impressive rookie numbers, Konateh stressed the importance of maintaining consistency – both in his game and in his leadership – to keep the Tamaraws’ Final Four hopes alive after a tough 1-6 first round.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“I have to be consistent in the game for our team to win and to play better everyday. I have to push myself every day because Coach Sean told me that I have to play a lot, so I have to be consistent and to do all the things that he needs me to do,” shared the St. Peter’s Technical Junior and Senior Secondary School product.
Konateh acknowledged the physicality and intensity of UAAP basketball, admitting that the level of play is demanding and exhausting.
Nevertheless, he continues to be a standout in his rookie season, leading the league in rebounds with an average of 17.38 per game and ranking second in blocks with 2.62 per contest.
“The level [of competition] here in the UAAP is hard. They play physical and they play good basketball. We just have to adapt and to play the best we can,” he added.
While FEU’s Season 87 campaign has had its struggles, head coach Sean Chambers emphasized that Konateh is one of the bright spots amid the team’s first-round challenges.
Chambers praised not only Konateh’s skills but also his relentless work ethic and humility – qualities that are vital to a young team like the Tamaraws.
“The guy played 43 minutes, he doesn’t complain, he works hard. I’m so proud of his progression. He’s only gonna get better, to think that Mo’s a rookie. Honestly, I don’t think we have anybody that works harder in practice than Mo,” said the Alaska Aces legend.
“He’s so humble, he’s so quiet. I want him to be just a little bit meaner, but he is who he is. He’s such a great kid. I’m just so happy for Mo and proud of his progression,” Chambers added.
