Redemption became the main theme for the National University in Season 87, and repeat might be the main objective for the Lady Bulldogs next year.
Without hesitation, NU’s Ann Pingol had a one-word response on the possibility of the Lady Bulldogs winning a ninth title in 10 years.
“Kaya,” Pingol told One News’ Play by Play just days after the Sampaloc-based squad achieved redemption in the UAAP Season 87 women’s basketball tournament by ousting the UST Growling Tigresses.
[ALSO READ: In Photos: ComeBARK is real with NU Lady Bulldogs in UAAP Season 87]
While it’s too early to talk about the next season, it’s a testament of the unwavering confidence of Pingol, Finals MVP Cielo Pagdulagan, skipper Camille Clarin, and Angel Surada have within themselves after reclaiming the title they lost a year ago.
“Ang mantra namin is to be ready in the Finals,” head coach Aris Dimaunahan said.
NU did more than just to be ready.
In fact, the Lady Bulldogs swept the elimination round at 14-0 and went on to finish the tournament 16-1 with their only loss coming in Game 2 of the championship round.
[ALSO READ: NU Lady Bulldogs advance to UAAP Season 87 Finals with 14-0 elims sweep]
“Everyone wanted to get better. I think that’s why we were so strong during the season that we were able to sweep the eliminations, because everyone was ready this time,” Clarin, who finished with 14 points, six rebounds and three assists in the title-clinching Game 3, said.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Camille Clarin underscores NU’s struggles after losing eight-peat bid—‘Nobody knows’]
One Lady Bulldog who elevated her game was Pagdulagan, who also bagged the Rookie of the Year award and proved that she can perform under the brightest of lights.
The 20-year-old out of NU Nazareth School averaged 15.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in the three-game championship series.
“Alam ko na malaki 'yung expectations nila sakin and ‘yung tiwala nila sa’kin. Kahit na rookie ako, pinagkakatiwalaan ako,” Pagdulagan bared.
With Clarin graduating and Surada still yet to decide if she will come back next season, NU is still expected to be the heavy favorite in Season 88 to repeat with Pagdulagan, Pingol and Co. ushering a new era of basketball for the Lady Bulldogs.