After recent dismal games for Arellano University, Travis Mantua had the task of stepping up for the team when they needed another go-to guy.
The 5-foot-9 Fil-Aussie delivered for the Chiefs in their past few games, even when they bowed out against San Sebastian College-Recolletos, 66-71, last Friday.
But against Jose Rizal University, Mantua made his court time worth it alongside Axel Doromal as Arellano took away a 62-52 win.
“I’m just happy that coach gave me the green light to play my game,” he expressed. “And I have to help out Axel [Doromal] on the scoring because I have to contribute just a bit, so I was able to do that.”
Now the Chiefs improved with a 6-8 win-loss card.
Mantua finished with 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, and three steals against the Heavy Bombers, Meanwhile, against the Golden Stags, he lifted his team with 15 markers, two boards, and two steals.
Also, the 23-year-old cager is averaging 5.2 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game this season. But for Mantua, he was doing his part for the team despite being undermanned and lacking defense lately.
“I just focused on doing my part for the team, and just being the facilitator of the court.” said the cousin of UST’s Royce Mantua. “Told myself to just focus on defense because that’s what we’ve been lacking for the past few games. And just happy to pull off a win.”
When playing and practicing with the team, Mantua feels comfortable at home with a family.
Still, he felt lucky enough to get the chance to play with that much confidence.
Before playing for Arellano, Mantua played in the UAAP last season 82 in 2018 with the Far Eastern University when the head coach was already Olsen Racela.
“I feel like I can just be myself on the court. With Coach Cholo [Martin], I was lucky enough that he gave me an opportunity to play on the court, and with this much game time.” he shared.
“I didn’t realize that I’ll get this much game time. And I’m happy that coach Cholo trusted me to do my part on the team.”
Additionally, fellow teammate Doromal commended Mantua’s patience and hard work over the past few games. He added that Mantua stays ready and composed whenever he gets the call.
“Si Travis, sobrang sipag pa rin sa practice. Wala akong masabi. Sobrang proud lang ako kay Travis na back-to-back games na maganda ‘yung linalaro.” Doromal answered.
For head coach Cholo Martin, it was the same, since he knows what Mantua is capable of playing his A-game.
“‘Yung intention niya na maaga sa practice, na nakikinig kung anong gagawin. Tsaka alam ko ‘yung fundamentals niya; ‘yung basics niya,” said the 69-year-old head tactician.
“So kaya ko siya pinakawalan kasi alam ko makaka-drible, makaka-shoot, so it’s a matter of timing.”
