By: Joaquin Cortez
Travis Roberts only has one season to leave his mark on Ateneo de Manila University basketball.
Rather than dwelling on the short timeline, however, the Filipino-American one-and-done guard is focused on doing whatever it takes to help the Blue Eagles win.
“It’s just one season, and I know it’s pretty short, but I’ll try to make the most out of it,” said Roberts.
Roberts reinforced that mindset after tallying 14 points and three rebounds in Ateneo’s victory over Adamson University on Saturday.
His effort helped the Blue Eagles improve to 2-1, good for second place in the standings, as Ateneo continues to navigate a new era following the departure of longtime head coach Tab Baldwin and the last-minute appointment of Louie Alas.
For Roberts, contributing to that early success three games into the season is all that matters.
“Whether what the team needs out of me from offense or defense, I’m just giving it all to the team. I’m just trying to win for my team and give it my all.”
(C) UAAP Season 89 Media Team
Roberts has also found a comfortable fit alongside Ateneo’s backcourt, with team captain Jared Bahay, rookie Kiefer Alas, and Ian Espinosa helping ease his transition into the UAAP.
“The guards, Jared, Kiefer, and Ian do a good job of making plays easier. They are unselfish, and they look for other guys. They can also score the ball and defend the ball as well … I just love playing with them,” he said.
The 6-foot-6 shooting guard arrived in Katipunan early this year after completing his NCAA Division I career in the United States with Alcorn State, before joining the Blue Eagles as the final stop of his collegiate journey.
While Roberts also came to the Philippines with the goal of playing for the Gilas Pilipinas national team, the atmosphere of the UAAP has already left a strong impression on him.
“First time in the UAAP out here, it’s my third game, and it’s a great atmosphere,” he said.
“I never really played in crazy, a lot of environments, especially like a UAAP game, so that was really nuts. But it’s really no pressure at all. I am just trying to have fun out here, play my game, and keep my confidence,” he added.
With just one UAAP season to make his mark, the Filipino-American wing is intent on making every moment count as the Blue Eagles usher in a new era under Alas.
