Royce Mantua comes up big in Adamson's win over former team UST in round 1 of UAAP Season 87.
Royce Mantua had twice the reason to perform well for the Adamson Soaring Falcons during their game against the UST Growling Tigers in UAAP Season 87 at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, September 15.
Apart from wanting to bounce back from a two-point outing in their 30-point beatdown at the hands of La Salle earlier this week, Mantua had a personal score to settle as he was also facing his former team.
Mantua played one season with the Growling Tigers in Season 85 before eventually transferring to Adamson. As his former team started out strong in Season 87, Mantua said that he was eager to get one back with his new team.
“Yeah, for sure [there’s extra motivation]. Definitely playing against my old teammates as well,” Mantua said after the game.
“[But] I also got to hide my emotions as well, so, it does motivate [me] that I’m playing against my old team. I’m glad that we got the win.”
[Related: Adamson Soaring Falcons rally to send UST reeling to first loss in UAAP Season 87]
Mantua had himself a game against the Growling Tigers as he finished with 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting in just 19 minutes of play.
But more than wanting to get back at his former team, it was more about contributing to the Adamson victory for the Fil-Aussie cager.
“For me, it’s like any other opponent but definitely there's a little emotion. But obviously I gotta hide it, I gotta play with the team I’m playing with right now. So, it’s more on our goal than just my role,” he said.
Playing in his first UAAP season with Adamson, Mantua also said that he has successfully assimilated to coach Nash Racela’s system.
As exhibited by their respectable 2-1 slate three games in this season, it seems to be working out well for the San Marcelino-based squad.
“It’s very very good.” Mantua said of Adamson’s system.
“With everyone, [the] ball movement, knowing what to do with the ball, knowing when to move without the ball too, also gives us opportunities. It fits well with everyone.” he added.
After this grudge match, Mantua hopes to continue his impact as the season goes on for the Soaring Falcons.
The next challenge will be last season’s Final Four finisher Ateneo Blue Eagles when they battle on Saturday, September 21, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.