Justin Arana was quick to deflect credit despite posting another double-double in Arellano University's 72-63 victory over Mapua University in the NCAA Season 97 on Sunday.
Tallying 17 points and 15 rebounds to go along with three assists and three blocks in another dominant performance, the 6-foot-7 bruiser said the win was due to his teammates, with the likes of Jordan Sta. Ana and Kai Oliva making their presence felt in the game.
Sta. Ana chipped in 15 markers and seven dimes while Oliva churned out 10 points as the Chiefs halted a three-game losing skid.
"Sobrang saya naman ngayon kasi frustrated kami kasi sunod-sunod 'yung talo namin then nakapag-bounce back kami this game. Sobrang saya ko kasi maganda yung adjustment ng coaches namin and nag-contribute lahat ng teammates ko," said Arana.
"Lahat sila nag-step up."
Arana has been the steady presence in the paint for Arellano. This was his fourth double-double in four games played for the senior big man.
In the opening day game against San Sebastian College-Recoletos, the senior big man logged 16 points and 15 rebounds. Against College of Saint Benilde and University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, Arana poured in 14 points and 11 rebounds and 14 markers and 12 boards, respectively.
The only Arellano game Arana wasn't able to contribute was the loss against the Letran Knights, which he missed due to an ACL sprain.
Still, Arana said it was their team effort that steered them to the win against Mapua but added that they have to double their effort if they want to catch the playoff bus.
"Siguro pagta-trabahuhan pa namin lalo kasi hindi pa 'to tapos at nagsisimula pa lang talaga 'tong ligang na to," the Camarines Norte native said.
"Kailangan namin mag-step up and mag-focus pa lalo para makuha namin 'yung Final Four spot."
—JMB, GMA News
