LA SALLE may have escaped Ateneo with a win, but the Green Archers could not escape the rivalry game without a scare of their own.
With lead guard Jacob Cortez already nursing a right hamstring injury, Joaquin Tovera suffered a right ankle sprain late in the overtime victory - just as the UAAP Season 89 enters its stretch run.
READ: La Salle bests archrival Ateneo in OT to hit mark for solo third
The good news is strength and conditioning coach Migs Aytona confirmed to SPIN.ph that Tovera’s injury was a regular sprain that could be managed within a few days, giving the green-and-white reason to be optimistic ahead of their next game against National U next Sunday.
Even better, Cortez himself is eyeing a return to action against the Bulldogs, allowing La Salle to have its two primetime playmakers in its bid to continue climbing the standings.
With their starter at point sidelined, coach Topex Robinson and staff put their faith in rookie Tovera, and he responded by norming 15.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 2.0 steals in the last three games.
Safe to say, the 18 year old was up to the task of creating for himself and his teammates, just like their archrival Blue Eagles learned.
Tovera torched Ateneo for 21 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and one steal before his untimely exit. And remember, in his debut against the Bulldogs, he made quite the first impression with 22 points in 8-of-14 shooting from the field.
La Salle future at point is secure
Cortez, for his part, had no doubt whatsoever that his new teammate - and family friend - can make this kind of immediate impact.
“He played great, you know, as I expected. Before the game (vs. Ateneo), I had to talk to him to take over and just play basketball,” he shared with SPIN.ph.
And that's why the 24 year old is looking forward to sharing the floor once more with Tovera, also in whom he entrusts the Green Archers' future at point.
“Looks very hopeful, you know. With him being 18 years old and putting on a show like that against older opponents,” the graduating guard said.
“I always tell him that no one in the gym can guard you, just to encourage him.”
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