Stefanie Berbarabe delivered her best performance to date for National University in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Basketball Tournament, contributing seven assists, three rebounds, two steals, and two points.
She also had a plus-30 rating on the floor during the Lady Bulldogs’ 91-53 victory over De La Salle University.
As a member of the Gilas Pilipinas team, Berbarabe played without committing a single turnover during her 15 minutes of action. She effectively acted as an extension of coach Aris Dimaunahan on the court, playing a pivotal role in NU’s biggest win of the campaign.
“It’s been fun. It’s been exciting. I’m just starting to get integrated into their system, but I understand my role and I’m discovering my teammates’ strengths,” said Berbarabe, who previously played for Westmont College.
“This team is exceptionally talented, so it’s been a smooth transition for me to play with such skilled players. What makes it easier to play with them is that you never question their effort. I’m just thankful to be part of a team that works so hard and sticks together.”
NU entered the game against La Salle with a determination to win, not only to improve their record but also to avenge their loss to the Lady Archers in the previous season, which ended their 108-game winning streak.
Despite being a new addition to the Lady Bulldogs, Berbarabe was well aware of that previous result. It served as a strong motivator for her to perform well against the Lady Archers.
“I know what happened last year, and we were all locked in, especially preparing for this game. So I think that once we stick together and have the same goal, we didn’t want to lose,” said the 5-foot-4 court general.
“Like CC (Camille Clarin) said, it’s not gonna happen again.”
As a one-and-done recruit, Berbarabe is determined to help NU secure an eighth successive championship. Her winning pedigree, much like her teammates, is impressive.
She won the NAIA Division 1 national title in her junior year and earned awards such as the NAIA Player of the Year, NAIA First Team All-American, GSAC Player of the Year, and All-GSAC Team during that same season.
Her past success drives her to be the best player in training and games, with a focus on winning championships and individual accolades.
“I’m a competitive person, so I like to win. That’s a big reason why I came to NU—they’re a winning team. I could tell the culture was very family-oriented together,” she said. “Since I’m only here for one season, I want to give it my all—step up on the court, play with no regrets, have fun with it, play within a new system, challenge myself, and get out of my comfort zone.
“I’m just excited to go get that championship.”
