JUST as we thought that the University of the Philippines is all set at the wings with the likes of Veejay Pre and James Payosing, another versatile forward is introducing himself in UAAP Season 89 in Elliott Dimaculangan.
A 6-foot-4 two-way talent out of Ontario, Canada, Dimaculangan came to Diliman by way of Simon Fraser University.
After serving one-year residency, a sprain unfortunately sidelined him in the Fighting Maroons' first four games of the season.
Once he got the greenlight to see action, though, Dimaculangan got to stepping on the gas and showing off what he can do - whether that be confidently taking and making triples or aggressively getting inside for buckets or free throws.
Without a doubt, he points to preparation as the key to how he has managed to eke out a stable place for himself in the rotation despite State U's deep roster.
"Coming here, I expected the physicality, so just being able to embrace it and not really shy away from that kind of basketball and being able to match the physicality kind of helped me be prepared for the UAAP,” he told SPIN.ph.
“These past games have just been a huge boost to my confidence. Now, I just want to continue to do whatever it takes, making the right plays, playing hard on defense," he added, as he now averages 8.4 points in 30.7-percent shooting from deep to go with 4.0 rebounds through five games.
And oh, all the games he has played in? All ended up in wins.
READ: UP goes out guns blazing against UE, gets fifth straight win
Yes, when he takes the court, Dimaculangan is yet to lose in the UAAP.
'Di magkukulang si Dimaculangan
That's exactly why without a doubt, the 23 year old will continue to be a big piece to the puzzle in UP's try for a third title in six seasons.
At the same time, he hopes all of this will be stepping stones for the next phase of his young career.
As he put it, “I mean, of course, the goal is to play professionally,” said Dimaculangan, who traces his roots to Batangas and Pampanga.
“I think that just getting the exposure I need in the Philippines is something that would help me out, whether for the PBA, Japan, Korea, whatever opportunity comes.”
For now, though, the long-limbed forward will keep at it, trusting that all of his teammates' hard work will keep leading to wins - and even more, the crown the Fighting Maroons last wore in 2024.
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