University of the Philippines is enjoying early success in both the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s and women’s basketball tournaments.
All thanks to a pair of foreign student-athletes Malick Diouf of the men’s team and Favour Onoh of UP’s distaff side who were at the forefront of the Fighting Maroons’ unbeaten runs to take the solo top spots in their divisions.
Their efforts did not go unnoticed as both took the honor of being named Collegiate Press Corps UAAP Player of the Week for men’s and women’s competitions from 30 September to 8 October.
Reigning Most Valuable Player Diouf came out swinging with a three-game average of 17 points, 15.33 rebounds, 2.67 blocks, and 1.33 assists as UP set its redemption bid in motion.
The Senegalese center submitted three consecutive double-doubles to keep his team on top and was the unanimous choice to be feted with the recognition presented by the San Miguel Corporation and backed by minor sponsors Discovery Suites and Jockey.
“I’m not here for individual awards. I just wanna play. I’m just here to play and help my team. Everybody (in the league) wants to improve so (the MVP award) is a bonus,” Diouf said.
He took the nod from print and online sportswriters covering the beat, besting De La Salle University forward Kevin Quiambao, University of the East’s Precious Momowei, Kean Baclaan of National University, and Adamson University’s Ced Manzano.
Onoh, on the other hand, went on a hot roll for the Fighting Maroons en route to a favorable position atop the women’s team standings with University of Santo Tomas.
Averaging 11.33 points, 13 rebounds, 3.33 blocks, and 2.33 steals, Onoh’s breakthrough display in UP’s first win in 12 years against eight-peat-seeking NU was the cherry on top of a dream start for the maroon shirts.
The Nigerian center had her best game of the season in the face of an esteemed champion side with 18 points and 15 boards, earning her the Collegiate Press Corps’ first-ever UAAP Women’s Player of the Week citation.
