Noel Kampton delivered when it mattered most, helping firmly position La Salle in the playoff picture of the UAAP Season 86 men’s volleyball tournament.
Kampton’s contributions assisted the Green Spikers in maintaining a prime position for a spot in the men’s semifinals as the elimination rounds near the homestretch.
His efforts proved more than sufficient for the Green Spikers’ playoff aspirations, earning him the Collegiate Press Corps’ UAAP Men’s Player of the Week award presented by San Miguel Corporation for the period of April 9 to 14.
Kampton showcased his prowess in critical moments, scoring significant attacks down the stretch, leading to a 17-point performance in an undermanned La Salle side’s 25-17, 25-11, 25-21 victory against UE, which eliminated the latter from playoff contention last April 9.
The ace outside spiker also accumulated 18 points, 22 excellent receptions, and seven excellent digs in La Salle’s stunning 25-19, 25-17, 31-33, 27-25 win against three-time defending champion NU on Sunday, even without JM Ronquillo.
This significant victory helped the Green Spikers, at 8-3, maintain their third-place ranking in the tight playoff race.
“Sa last (remaining) games, wala namang masama mangarap. Ita-try naming ma-sweep ang remaining games. I’m not saying na mananalo kami but we’ll do our best,” remarked Kampton. “Ito muna kami sa second round, doon muna kami mag-focus talaga.”
Kampton was selected over teammates Vince Maglinao, FEU’s Ariel Cacao, NU’s Nico Almendras, Ateneo’s Ken Batas, UST’s Josh Ybañez, and UP’s Jaivee Malabanan for the weekly honor, which was deliberated upon by print and online media regularly covering the collegiate beat.
