Surprises were aplenty in the finals duel between Mapua University and San Beda University in the NCAA Season 99.
In Game 1, a rookie rose to the occasion for the Cardinals when freshman Peter Rosillo put the clamps on Jacob Cortez as the third year ace was limited to just 12 points. Then in Game 2, another rookie shone, this time for San Beda.
San Beda head coach decided to put first year player AJ Royo in the starters' list alongside the usuals such as Cortez, Yukien Andrada, Clifford Jopia, and Peter Alfaro. That was Royo's first-ever starting role in the season, and Escueta explained just why.
According to the sophomore tactician, he actually had a dream wherein he gave Royo the starting role and when the dust settled, he was glad he made that change in their game plan.
"Natulog ako nang maaga nung Friday ng gabi, natulog ako ng 8:00, napanaginipan ko na ini-start ko siya eh, kaya stinart ko siya today," Escueta shared after the Red Lions' win last Sunday.
Going toe-to-toe against Mapua's pesky guards in Clint Escamis, Cyrus Cuenco, and Rosillo, Royo displayed composure and held his own, finishing with six points, three rebounds, three assists, and a steal to help in their 71-65 win.
But more than his offense, Royo showed he can be an asset in defense as his contribution on stopping the Mapua backcourt bore fruit.
"(He) could be better. But we know what he could bring. I know that he's a veteran," Escueta added.
"He played in college in Davao before. He played in a lot of tournaments before. So, we know what he could bring and why he is here."
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
