A Game 1 win in the men's basketball finals is not new for Mapua University.
Last season, the Cardinals also took Game 1, but San Beda University bounced back the following game and eventually claimed the title in Game 3.
This time around, Mapua star Clint Escamis said they have learned from lessons of the past.
"Siyempre marami akong natutunan since last year. You don't win a championship in Game 1, knowing that from last year. So, job's not finished. Kailangan lang mas tutukan pa, i-instill namin sa mga rookies na celebrate now, go back to work tomorrow," Escamis said adding that they still had lapses from their 84-73 win over De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Escamis himself had a monster game as he erupted for 30 points.
With a target on his back in Game 2, the reigning rookie Most Valuable Player is aware that the team should also be ready to step up, in case he will be limited by the Blazers.
"Siyempre, i-expect ko 'yung game plan nila towards sa'kin, lalong mahigpit 'yung defense. So for me, kailangan ko [to] make the right reads in the right situations, involve my teammates kasi big part din 'yun eh. Hindi ka mananalo ng championship ng isa lang. It takes a team effort talaga and team chemistry," he added.
Escamis is coming also from a career-high performance in the Final Four match against Lyceum of the Philippines University where he had 33 points and he brought the same mentality for today's game.
"Naging mataas 'yung confidence ko since that career high ng semis. So 'yun, dinala ko lang 'yung tamang mentality and mga preparation ko lang to this game," he said.
More than offense, however, Escamis said defense is what they need to bring Mapua to the promised land.
"Defense wins championships," he added.
Game 2 of the finals will be played on Saturday at the same venue.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
