Ever since leaving his high school team at San Beda University for De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde for college, Robi Nayve had always wanted to beat his alma mater.
And on Sunday, he finally got that sweet victory.
The Blazers stepped on the gas in the fourth quarter with Nayve's backcourt partner Migs Oczon scoring 11 points in that period as they tamed the Red Lions, 78-69, to solidify their hold of the top spot.
"Actually, nothing much pero nandyan pa rin 'yan since alma mater ko 'yan," said Nayve, who suited up for the Red Cubs in the junior ranks.
"Ever since, gusto ko rin talaga talunin 'yung Beda, parang proving something lang. And ayun, I'm happy na 'yung team showed composure sa sobrang pressured na game and it showed din 'yung character ng team na hindi nagpapatalo."
Against San Beda, Nayve finished with 10 points, three rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block while Oczon finished with a team-high 19 points as Benilde improved to 7-1.
But while he was on the winning end against the Red Lions, Nayve admitted San Beda was a tough team to beat given its history and winning culture.
He added, though, that the respect they give to the Red Lions doesn't mean they are scared to face the Mendiola crew.
"Alam naman namin na 'yung Beda ay contender talaga sila ever since so parang hindi na namin iniisip," Nayve said.
"May sinabi sa amin si coach Carlo (Tan) na respect and fear, may difference 'yun. Parang sinasabi niya sa amin na nirerespeto namin sila pero hindi namin sila dapat katakutan."
—JMB, GMA News
