Unheralded Xyza Pring and Bonie Solis made their presence felt when it mattered most in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament.
Up against an undefeated University of Santo Tomas in the best-of-three Finals, National University drew timely contributions beyond their usual producers in Angel Surada, Tin Cayabyab, and Marga Villanueva.
With Pring and Solis knocking down crucial baskets, the Lady Bulldogs frustrated the Growling Tigresses to claim an 84-79 victory in Game 1 on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
For head coach DA Olan, even though he cannot give Solis and Pring heavy minutes every game, his trust in his entire lineup has never wavered.
“Sabi ko naman sa kanila, they just have to be ready anytime na ipasok sila doon, kailangan mag-contribute sila in any way,” said Olan.
“Talagang masaya ako na regardless kung at times may games na ilang minuto lang ang nilalaro nila Xy at Bonie, pag pinasok sila, they are always ready and ready to contribute big time.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
The fourth-year Solis finished with 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting, along with two rebounds, two assists, and one steal. Meanwhile, sophomore Pring tallied nine points, three rebounds, and two assists, and posted a plus-13 in just 13 minutes and 44 seconds on the floor.
Solis said she places her full trust in her coach, staying ready no matter how long she’s used in a given game.
“Sa akin bigay ko lang talaga ‘yung best ko kahit anong mangyari, kahit anong minutes ‘yung ibigay sayo, ibuhos mo lang ang 100 percent,” said Solis.
“Trabaho lang, depensa lang, kasi doon kami kumukuha ng lakas para sa offense namin eh,” added Pring, who made an immediate impact.
Now, the Lady Bulldogs hope to replicate their Game 1 performance as they aim to secure back-to-back championships.
Game 2 is set on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
