Jose Rizal University rookie Patrick Ramos introduced himself to the NCAA during the Heavy Bombers' 70-61 win against Mapua University.
Ramos went hot as he only missed a single field goal, going 9-for-10 from the field en route to his breakout 18-point team-high performance.
He's now averaging 9.33 points per game in NCAA Season 99 and has shot 12-for-15 from the field in total. His 80-percent field goal percentage is ranked 2nd in the league, behind his own teammate Vince Sarmiento, who has shot 9-for-11 in JRU's three games.
For JRU head coach Louie Gonzales, this performance just shows the depth of his team.
"We're not rough, that's for sure. We play with a lot of effort, we make sure we cover every possible situation. That's what my players did now," Gonzales said in a mix of English and Filipino after their win over the Cardinals.
"I mentioned the depth of my 15-man (lineup), everyone can play. For today, it's Patrick's turn, Patrick delivered well."
While veterans like Agem Miranda, Marwin Dionisio, and JL Delos Santos have been stalwarts with consistent showings for the Heavy Bombers, they've gotten support from up and down the roster this season.
In their first game, Shawn Argente came up with crucial contributions, scoring nine points in the fourth quarter as JRU was able to outlast Letran in an overtime win. In their loss to Benilde, Miranda was the sole player in double-figures with a 31-point explosion, but they had four other players finishing with eight apiece.
On Sunday, it was Ramos proving once again that this team has depth beyond the usual names.
Gonzales added that Ramos made some sacrifices and adapted well to adjust to their system and his showing was just a proof of those efforts.
For Ramos, meanwhile, it was just about maximizing what is in front of him.
"It was all about being ready. Coach wanted me to be more assertive and there are things I wanted to improve on," Ramos said. "Today he gave me an opportunity so I took it to heart."
The Heavy Bombers will be back on Wednesday when they play Emilio Aguinaldo College.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
