DEFENDING arguably the country's best college player today is no easy feat, but University of the Philippines rookie Jacob Bayla stood his ground, effectively neutralizing Kevin Quiambao in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men's basketball finals on Sunday at the Big Dome.
With just five points, three steals, two rebounds, and an assist, Bayla posted the highest plus-minus rating at +18, following an elite performance that helped limit powerhouse La Salle, as UP drew first blood, 73-65.
READ: QMB a difference-maker as UP draws first blood vs La Salle
"Whenever I come in, I just work hard, play my best, and play with a lot of heart," Bayla said after the game.
Like the UP community, he has been patient with himself, trusting that he'll find his rhythm as long as he continues to put in the work — a lesson he learned from former Maroon Juan Gomez de Liano, his time's rookie of the year.
Bayla shared with SPIN.ph that they had a meaningful conversation prior to the start of the season.
"I remember him [Juan GDL] telling me that whenever I go in, I should make an impact. In today’s game, I did,” he said. “I’m just going to say that I can make the biggest impact on both ends of the court, especially on defense.”
That conversation took place in July, when UP visited South Korea for a training camp, and Bayla still finds it invaluable to this day.
"Asking him for advice back then, I got many valuable lessons. I appreciate him giving me his time—we talked for like 30 minutes. He always said to just play hard all the time," Bayla continued.
Aware of the support the UP community shows him, Bayla—who was born and raised in California—also shared that he's gradually adjusting to the culture.
"Personally, I’m getting there, slowly but surely. I love the community; it’s exciting every time, and I hope we continue to get opportunities like this. The people in UP make it easy to fit in since everyone’s nice and welcoming," he added.
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