Defending champions Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles have a deep backcourt. Early this year, the rich got richer when Ateneo recruited SJ Belangel.
So when Matt Nieto went down during Ateneo’s game against the FEU Tamaraws last October 10, the question was not how would the Blue Eagles do without him – the question was who would step up?
During the last three games, Tyler Tio has taken over the role of Ateneo’s lead general, averaging 12.33 points during that span. More than the stats, the standout from Xavier School has steadied Ateneo’s ship, leading them to three more wins.
For the 20-year-old, though, it’s not about filling in Nieto’s shoes. It’s about seizing the opportunity.
“I don’t really think about how big the role is, I’m just trying to do my job. I’m confident kasi na if I don’t do my job, someone else will step up,” shared Tio, who only had 13 points in the first round.
“At the same time, that motivates me to do my job also. Matt, for me, is one of the best college point guards right now so I think it’s gonna be a tough job to replace him and I don’t think I can replace him,” he added after scoring a career-high 16 points in Ateneo’s 90-70 win over the University of the East Red Warriors.
“I’m just doing my job to be me, I’m not trying to be him.”
Tio, a sophomore, and Nieto, a senior, have been pushing each other to the limit during the team’s practices. And what impresses him about the Gilas cadet is his character.
“We push each other during practices, Matt is the kind of guy who gives his all every practice. I learn a lot from that,” Tio admitted.
“More than the skills, the X’s and O’s, it’s his heart that separates him from the pack.”
When Nieto comes back, Ateneo will be a more dangerous squad, as Tio is starting to find his form. But in order for that to happen, the 5-foot-11 floor general has vowed that he will not settle as he continues to push himself harder both on and off the court.
“I guess it starts with the fact that every guy in the team has confidence that the next guy can step up,” he said.
“Obviously we prepare hard for the games, thankfully the chips fall into place during the game.”
