Louie Ramirez led all scorers to push Alas Pilipinas past Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals.
Louie Ramirez made the most of a surprise starting role, powering Alas Pilipinas to a rousing four-set win over Indonesia’s Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi to open the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Tuesday, June 10.
The former NCAA MVP exploded for 25 points as the national team toppled the back-to-back Proliga champions, 25-23, 27-29, 25-21, 25-22.
“Sobrang laki [ng boost] kasi nga andiyan si kuya Marck [Espejo],” said Ramirez, referring to the veteran national team ace.
“Hindi ko inaasahan na ako ‘yung gagamiting first six ni coach Angiolino kasi kaninang umaga lang niya ako ginamit as first six din. Sinabi ko na lang sa sarili ko na maglalaro ako ng maayos,” he added.
Ramirez credited head coach Angiolino Frigoni for helping him develop the mental fortitude and refined skill set needed to thrive at the international level.
“Mindset lang namin is mailaro ‘yung dapat mailaro namin na gusto ni coach Angiolino,” said Ramirez. “Sobrang grabe ‘yung paghihirap namin sa araw-araw na training, and gusto lang talaga naming maipakita kung ano ang gusto niyang mangyari.”
The outside hitter, who rose to prominence with Perpetual Help in the NCAA, noted the growth he’s seen in himself since joining the national team program.
“Siguro ‘yung fighting spirit and skills din [ang pinaka growth],” he added. “Ang dami kong natutunan kay coach lalo na sa skills and mental toughness.”
Ramirez will look to continue his strong performance in the three-day tournament that also features Thailand and South Korea’s Hyundai Capital Skywalkers
Alas Men return to action on Wednesday night against the Skywalkers at 7:30 p.m.