Spoiler alert: He was able to accomplish both.
National University Bulldogs rookie Michaelo Buddin had a couple of motivations heading into the game against De La Salle University Green Archers in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Volleyball tournament on Wednesday.
First, Buddin wanted to avenge the loss of their women counterparts to the Lady Spikers earlier in the day at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“Kasi nung pumasok sila sa dugout nila, nakita ko silang umiiyak, May mga sinabihan akong babawi kami para sa inyo. Sobrang naging motivated ako, yun naging mindset ko,” he said, referring to the Lady Bulldogs who absorbed a 25-10, 25-15, 25-21 loss to La Salle in the distaff side.
Buddin's other motivation was to atone for his dismal performances recently.
He was able to accomplish both after the Bulldogs swept La Salle, 25-21, 25-21, 25-16, and wrapped up the first round with an immaculate 7-0 win-loss slate.
Buddin turned in 19 points, including 3 blocks and 2 aces.
“For the past few games medyo off ako. Sobrang naging motivated ako na maglaro kasi gusto kong tulungan ['yung] team,” he said. “For the past few games hindi ako nakakatulong sa team. Effective naging mindset ko sa tulong na rin ng teammates at coaches.”
NU coach Dante Alimsunurin was pleased, saying he’s hopeful the Bulldogs’ impressive play will carry on to the second round.
“Pinaghandaan talga namin ‘tong game na 'to. Kasi naging goal namin makuha 'yung sweep ngayong first round,” he said.
“And sana magtuloy-tuloy sa second round. Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga players kasi nag-respond sila kung ano naging plano namin sa game.”
(With reports from Meilin Lozada, One Sports Digital)