KNOWN more as a defensive specialist and hustle player, Jolo Manansala is now finding more ways to contribute for National U.
Specifically, the 6-foot-4 lanky forward has cranked it up a notch in terms of scoring.
"Actually, hindi ko naman iniisip," he expressed even after scoring 22 points in efficient 9-of-14 shooting from the field in their victory vs. FEU last Wednesday that sent them to the quarterfinals of the 2025 Filoil Preseason Cup.
READ: Benilde survives EAC as NU completes Filoil Preseason playoff picture
"Nilalaro ko yung strength ko kaya mas nakaka-contribute ako ngayon," he added.
Through his three-year tenure, thus far, with the Bulldogs, Manansala's strengths have always been his energy and effort, as he had been tasked to make life difficult for the likes of La Salle's Kevin Quiambao and the University of the Philippines' Francis Lopez.
Last season in the UAAP, the 22 year old averaged 5.9 rebounds and close to a block and a steal.
For NU to rise from its dismal 5-9 campaign, however, it needs much more from its key contributors - Manansala being one of them.
Just do it, Jolo
And so in the ongoing preseason tourney, the Angeles, Pampanga native has answered the call, norming 8.0 points, 4.4 boards, and 1.2 assists heading into their quarterfinals matchup with NCAA No. 1 Letran.
In doing so, Manansala has capably and confidently filled in the role usually reserved for top gun Jake Figueroa, who has been dealing with various injuries.
National U needs this welcome development now, especially after seeing supposed new building blocks in Collins Akowe and Migs Palanca opt to go to UST and UP, respectively.
"Ginawa naming motivation. Kasi kung sino na lang yung natira, dun lang kami," he expressed.
For his part, head coach Jeff Napa is just glad to see another one of his wing players realizing his potential - just like Shaun Ildefonso, Mike Malonzo, and RJ Minerva once did before going to the next level of their careers.
As he put it, “It matters how to strengthen your strengths talaga. Kaming mga coaches, ayun yung talagang nire-remind namin, na kelangang pagtrabahuan lahat.”
With another two-way weapon at his disposal, Napa is expecting nothing but a bounce back campaign from his Bulldogs.
And in turn, all of us can expect no less than continued hard work from Manansala and Co.
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