ALREADY a force on defense, Raffy Verano finally showed that he can be a force on defense as well in Ateneo's big win over National University on Sunday.
The rookie Verano scored 20 points on Sunday to help the Blue Eagles deal National University a 65-50 beating and solidify their hold of third place in the UAAP Season 79 team standings.
Ateneo assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga said Verano has been an integral piece in defense's defense all season long. He is just glad to see the rookie show off his scoring exploits this time.
"We've seen glimpses of Raffy in some of the games. He has been a spark plug off the bench especially defensively,' said Arespacochaga. "He proved today that he can score and we are very happy with Raffy's perfomance."
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Verano was on target the whole game, hitting eight of his 13 shots, including a 3-of-4 clip from three-point range.
Verano said he has been adjusting well to the Philippine style of basketball.
"It's very different," said Verano, a product of San Gabriel Academy in California. "It took me a while to adjust but I'm getting the pace already."
Nevertheless, Verano thanked his teammates for helping him settle down and gain confidence.
"I couldn't do it without my teammates. As soon as my shots were falling, they kept feeding me and encouraging me," said Verano.